Computing at Barnham CEVC Primary School

 

Vision

Computing is an ever-evolving and integral part of modern life, bringing both exciting opportunities and new responsibilities. At Barnham CEVC Primary School, we aim to equip our pupils to navigate the digital world with confidence, integrity and wisdom.

Our vision is to empower children to find, explore, analyse, create and share information in a variety of digital forms. We strive to develop fluent and versatile users of technology who can select appropriate tools to express their ideas and solve problems effectively. By the end of Upper Key Stage 2, pupils are expected to demonstrate independence, creativity and confidence in their use of digital technology.

 

We believe children should be creators, not simply consumers, of technology. Our broad and balanced curriculum - encompassing computer science, information technology and digital literacy - fosters curiosity, critical thinking and responsible decision-making. Through both Computing and PSHE, we place strong emphasis on online safety, ensuring pupils understand how to stay safe, respectful and secure in an increasingly connected world.

 

Intent

At Barnham CEVC Primary School, every child is entitled to rich, deep and meaningful learning experiences across all aspects of computing. Rooted in our Christian ethos and values, we nurture reflective, responsible learners who use technology thoughtfully and purposefully.

 

We recognise computational thinking as an essential life skill. By developing logical reasoning, problem-solving and creativity, our pupils are equipped to participate effectively - and safely- in the digital world. A high-quality computing education enables children not only to use technology, but to understand and shape it.

 

Technology is used to enhance and enrich learning across the curriculum. When used with purpose, it promotes collaboration, deepens engagement and supports conceptual understanding. We are committed to ensuring that digital tools are used meaningfully to support the needs of all learners.

 

Our curriculum is supported by the National Centre for Computing Education through the Teach Computing programme, ensuring a progressive and coherent structure. Online safety education is embedded throughout our curriculum and reinforced through PSHE teaching.

 

Staff receive regular professional development to ensure confident subject knowledge, accurate assessment and a consistent approach to safe and effective technology use.

Ultimately, we prepare our pupils not only for the next stage of their education, but for life in an ever-changing digital society.

 

 

 

Implementation

Computing at Barnham CEVC Primary School is implemented through a structured, progressive curriculum that ensures full coverage of the statutory National Curriculum for Computing. From Year 1 to Year 6, we follow the Teach Computing programme developed by the National Centre for Computing Education, enabling pupils to systematically build knowledge, skills and vocabulary over time.

 

Early Years Foundation Stage

In the Early Years, computing is introduced through purposeful play and cross-curricular exploration within the Understanding the World area of learning. Children engage with technology as part of their daily experiences, using tools such as iPads, digital cameras, interactive whiteboards and programmable toys including Bee-Bots.

Through guided activities and exploration, pupils begin to understand how technology works and how it can be used safely and responsibly. Early online safety messages are introduced in an age-appropriate manner, laying the foundations for respectful and secure digital behaviour.

Years 1 - 6

From Year 1 onwards, computing is taught as a discrete subject, with opportunities for meaningful cross-curricular application. Lessons are practical, engaging and appropriately challenging, encouraging pupils to think logically, solve problems creatively and work collaboratively.

 

Our curriculum is structured around four key strands:

 

Creating Media - Pupils develop skills in producing and editing digital content, including text, images, audio and video, fostering creativity and effective communication.

 

Data and Information - Children learn how data is collected, organised and interpreted, using digital tools to analyse and present information.

 

Programming - Pupils learn about algorithms, sequencing, repetition and selection, developing the ability to design, write and debug programs.

 

Computer Systems and Networks -  Children gain an understanding of hardware, software and networks, including how information is shared online and how to use technology responsibly.

 

The curriculum is carefully sequenced so that each year group builds upon prior learning. Key concepts are revisited in increasingly complex contexts to deepen understanding and promote fluency.

 

Online safety remains central throughout all year groups, ensuring pupils understand both the opportunities and responsibilities associated with digital technology. Staff receive ongoing professional development to maintain high standards of teaching and assessment.

 

 

Impact

The impact of our computing curriculum is seen in pupils who are confident, capable and responsible users of technology. Children build progressively on their knowledge and skills, enabling them to remember more and apply their learning independently.

Through the carefully sequenced Teach Computing programme, pupils revisit and deepen key concepts across computer science, information technology and digital literacy.

 

Assessment is aligned to key learning objectives and may include practical outcomes, quizzes, observation and discussion. Where understanding is not yet secure, further teaching and consolidation is provided to ensure progress for all learners.

 

The Computing Subject Leader, alongside the Senior Leadership Team, monitors and evaluates the quality of provision through lesson visits, work scrutiny, pupil voice and professional dialogue. This ensures consistency, high expectations and continuous improvement.

 

As a result, pupils leave Barnham CEVC Primary School equipped with the knowledge, skills and discernment needed to thrive in the digital world. They understand how technology shapes society and are prepared to use it safely, creatively and responsibly as they move on to the next stage of their education.