Intent

At Coppull Parish CE Primary School, we believe that computing is an essential part of a broad and balanced curriculum and plays a key role in preparing pupils for life in an increasingly digital world. Through our use of the NCCE Teach Computing curriculum, Project Evolve and Barefoot Computing, we aim to equip all pupils with the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to thrive safely and responsibly in the 21st century.

Our curriculum is designed to:

• Inspire pupils to develop curiosity and confidence when using technology
• Develop knowledge and skills across computer science, information technology and digital literacy
• Equip pupils with the ability to use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly as digital citizens
• Build understanding of the role computing plays in future careers and the wider world
• Encourage problem-solving, creativity, resilience and critical thinking
• Support pupils to communicate effectively using appropriate technical vocabulary
• Ensure all pupils, regardless of starting point, can access and succeed in computing

We want our pupils to become confident, independent users of technology who can use their skills to support learning across the curriculum. We aim for children to understand their role within both their local community and the wider global digital community, developing as responsible and respectful users of technology.

Implementation

Computing is taught through a carefully sequenced and progressive curriculum, primarily based on the NCCE Teach Computing scheme, supported by Project Evolve for online safety and Barefoot to enrich computational thinking.

Key features of our approach include:

• Progressive skill development: Pupils revisit key concepts in computer science, information technology and digital literacy, building increasing confidence and independence over time
• Discrete teaching: Computing is taught in dedicated lessons to ensure depth of knowledge and clear progression across each unit
• Practical application: Pupils use a range of devices, including Chromebooks, iPads and laptops, to engage with a variety of software and platforms such as Google Workspace and Purple Mash
• Online safety: Project Evolve is used to deliver a comprehensive and progressive online safety curriculum, supporting pupils’ understanding of safe and responsible technology use
• Computational thinking: Barefoot resources support the development of logical thinking, problem-solving and programming skills
• Vocabulary development: Teachers explicitly teach and model computing vocabulary to support understanding, communication and evaluation
• Collaborative learning: Opportunities for paired and group work support communication skills and the development of speaking and listening
• Cross-curricular links: Where meaningful, computing is linked to other subjects to enhance learning, while maintaining its integrity as a discrete subject
• Inclusive practice: Lessons are adapted to ensure all pupils, including those with SEND, can fully participate and succeed

Pupils are assessed using a skills-focused approach, with ongoing feedback provided verbally and through digital platforms such as Google Classroom to support progress and improvement.

Impact

The impact of our computing curriculum is reflected in the confidence, independence and digital awareness of our pupils.

Pupils will:

• Use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully, demonstrating a strong understanding of online safety
• Develop secure skills in computer science, information technology and digital literacy
• Apply problem-solving and computational thinking skills across a range of contexts
• Communicate effectively using appropriate computing vocabulary
• Show resilience and confidence when working with new technologies
• Understand the role of computing in the wider world and future career opportunities

Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards computing, showing enjoyment and confidence when engaging with technology. They understand how to maintain a healthy balance when using digital devices and recognise the importance of their wellbeing in a digital world.

Assessment evidence and pupil voice show clear progression in knowledge, skills and understanding over time. Pupils leave Coppull Parish as capable, responsible and confident digital citizens, well-prepared for the next stage of their education and beyond.