Overview

Our computing curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure pupils develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to use technology confidently, safely and purposefully. Learning is structured so that pupils revisit, secure and build upon prior knowledge over time.

The curriculum is delivered through the strands of online safety, computing fundamentals, computational thinking and coding, technology in our lives, and multimedia. These are taught in blocks across the year, allowing immersion in each strand while ensuring progression and application of learning. Online safety is taught every half-term and through the personal development curriculum.

Pupils develop proficiency in using technology to create high-quality digital work, solve problems and communicate ideas for authentic purposes. They learn how technology works and are encouraged to apply their understanding to new and unfamiliar systems.

Lessons incorporate retrieval practice, explicit vocabulary teaching, teacher modelling and opportunities for practice and reflection. By the time pupils leave Totley, they are confident, resilient and responsible users of technology, well prepared for the digital world beyond school.

Reception

Key focus

  • Using a computer and basic hardware (mouse, keyboard, turning devices on and off safely)

  • Creating basic digital content (taking photos, simple digital work)

  • Introduction to algorithms and programming through unplugged activities and BeeBots

  • Recognising technology used at home and in school

  • Using technology purposefully for play and learning

  • Learning how to stay safe and healthy online and offline both at school and at home

Year 1

Key focus

  • Using a computer and basic hardware

  • Saving and opening work

  • Creating and editing simple text and images

  • Introduction to algorithms and coding (BeeBots, simple sequencing)

  • Digital photography and photo organisation

  • Technology around us and safe internet searching

Year 2

Key focus

  • Word processing and formatting text

  • Creating simple digital publications

  • Printing and managing files

  • Introduction to screen-based coding and debugging

  • Creating digital artwork and photo editing

  • Searching the internet safely and understanding online information

Year 3

Key focus

  • Advanced word processing and document layout

  • Introduction to presentations

  • Programming with physical devices and on-screen coding

  • Using databases to sort and organise information

  • Creating short digital films with sound

  • Understanding how search engines work and responsible online behaviour

Year 4

Key focus

  • Selecting appropriate software for different purposes

  • Presentation design and branching presentations

  • Programming using loops and conditionals

  • Data collection and use of databases

  • Creating digital films using video and audio

  • Understanding networks, servers and cloud storage

Year 5

Key focus

  • Using spreadsheets to enter, analyse and present data

  • Evaluating and selecting software for specific outcomes

  • Programming using variables, inputs and outputs

  • Robotics and control using sensors

  • Creating green screen films for specific audiences

  • Understanding online advertising, data use and copyright

Year 6

Key focus

  • Advanced use of productivity software including spreadsheets

  • Complex programming projects using variables and formulas

  • Robotics and physical computing to solve real-world problems

  • Comparing coding languages and approaches

  • Creating high-quality digital films using green screen and sound

  • Understanding data, privacy, bias and digital literacy