Computing

Intent Statement

By the time our pupils leave Year 6, they will be confident and responsible users of technology who understand computer science, information technology and digital literacy. They will design, write and debug programs, use logical reasoning and understand key concepts such as algorithms.

Pupils will create and present digital content, manage data and use technology safely and responsibly, understanding online risks. By the end of Year 6, our pupils will see themselves as digital learners—equipped to use technology effectively in the modern world.

Policy

The policy for this subject can be found on our main policy section of the website.

National Curriculum

Useful Websites

Content coming.

Subject Progression Document

How can I support my child in this subject?

Computing helps children develop skills in computer science (coding and understanding how technology works), digital literacy (using technology safely and effectively) and information technology (creating digital content). Children also learn how to stay safe online and use technology responsibly.

Families play an important role in supporting children to develop confidence, curiosity and safe habits when using technology.

Helping children in the Infants (Reception, Year 1 and Year 2)

At this stage, children are learning that technology is part of everyday life and beginning to understand simple instructions and digital tools.

You can help your child by:

  • Talking about the different types of technology used at home and in the community.

  • Encouraging your child to use technology for creative purposes, such as drawing pictures, taking photographs or recording ideas.

  • Helping them understand that computers follow simple instructions.

  • Playing simple games that involve sequencing steps, such as giving directions (forward, turn, stop).

  • Supporting safe use of devices by explaining:

    • not sharing personal information

    • telling a trusted adult if something worries them online

  • Encouraging your child to take turns and use devices responsibly and respectfully.

  • Talking together about how technology helps us learn, communicate and create.

At this stage, children benefit from learning that technology is useful, creative and something to use safely.

Helping children in the Lower Juniors (Year 3 and Year 4)

At this stage, children begin learning how digital systems work and how to create simple programs. They also develop stronger online safety awareness.

You can help your child by:

  • Encouraging them to explain how computers follow instructions.

  • Supporting opportunities to practise simple coding activities using child-friendly tools.

  • Talking about how technology is used at school, at home and in the wider world.

  • Encouraging responsible behaviour when using the internet and reminding them:

    • not to share personal information

    • to speak to a trusted adult if something does not feel right online

  • Supporting your child to create digital work such as presentations, drawings or simple documents.

  • Encouraging them to think carefully about what information online can be trusted.

At this stage, children begin to understand that computers store, process and present information.

Helping children in the Upper Juniors (Year 5 and Year 6)

At this stage, children develop confidence in programming, understanding networks and using technology safely and responsibly.

You can help your child by:

  • encouraging them to explain how algorithms and programs work

  • supporting opportunities to practise coding and problem-solving

  • talking about how the internet connects computers around the world

  • discussing how to recognise reliable and unreliable information online

  • encouraging safe and respectful behaviour when communicating online

  • supporting your child to create digital projects such as presentations, videos or documents

  • talking about how computing is used in real-life careers such as engineering, medicine, design and science

At this stage, children are developing confidence in understanding how technology works and using it responsibly.

Supporting your child to use technology safely and confidently at any age

You can support computing learning by:

  • talking regularly about online safety

  • encouraging creative uses of technology rather than only entertainment

  • setting clear routines and expectations for device use

  • reminding children not to share personal information online

  • encouraging them to tell a trusted adult if something worries them

  • showing interest in the digital work they create

The most important thing you can do is help your child understand that technology is a powerful tool for learning, creating and communicating when used safely and responsibly.