Intent

At Higham Primary School, we want all pupils to become confident, responsible and skilful users of technology. As technology plays an increasingly important role in everyday life, we believe children should develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to use digital tools safely, creatively and effectively in a rapidly changing world.

Through a broad and progressive computing curriculum, pupils develop their understanding of the three key strands of computing: computer science, information technology and digital literacy. We aim to ensure that children build secure knowledge and skills over time, enabling them to become confident problem-solvers, critical thinkers and creative learners.

We recognise that technology provides powerful opportunities for communication, collaboration and creativity. Our curriculum encourages pupils to explore, create, analyse and present information using a range of digital tools, while developing independence and resilience in their learning. Computing is also used across the wider curriculum, helping children to apply their skills in meaningful and purposeful contexts.

Online safety and digital citizenship are at the heart of our computing curriculum. From the beginning of their school journey, pupils learn how to use technology positively, responsibly and safely, developing an understanding of their digital footprint and the importance of respectful online behaviour.

By the time they leave Higham Primary School, children will have a secure foundation in computer science, information technology and digital literacy. They will be equipped with the confidence, knowledge and critical understanding needed to participate safely and successfully in an increasingly digital world.

Implementation

Through our computing curriculum, pupils develop the knowledge and skills needed to understand and engage with the digital world. Using the Teach Computing scheme, learning is carefully sequenced to ensure progression in computer science, information technology and digital literacy.

From Key Stage 1 onwards, pupils are introduced to algorithms, programming and the purposeful use of technology. As they move through the school, they deepen their understanding of coding, data handling, networks and digital systems through a range of practical, creative and problem-solving activities.

Online safety is embedded throughout the curriculum and further supported through resources from Common Sense Media. Pupils learn how to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully, developing their understanding of privacy and security, digital footprints, online relationships, media literacy and digital wellbeing.

Computing is integrated across the wider curriculum, providing meaningful opportunities for pupils to apply and enhance their digital skills in different contexts. At Higham, parents and carers are informed when online safety concerns arise, and further information and support are provided where appropriate to help promote safe technology use both in and beyond school.

Impact

Learning in computing is engaging, purposeful and progressive across the school. Teachers have high expectations, and pupils are proud to share their work in a variety of ways. Pupils use subject-specific vocabulary accurately and demonstrate increasing confidence and competence across the three strands of computing: computer science, information technology and digital literacy.

Pupils show clear progression in their knowledge and skills, drawing on prior learning to solve problems, create digital content and use technology effectively across the curriculum. They confidently use a range of hardware, software and digital platforms to support their learning and communicate their ideas.

Pupils recognise that technology is an important part of everyday life and understand how to use it safely, responsibly and respectfully. They make informed choices online and understand the importance of protecting their personal information, managing their digital footprint and showing positive digital citizenship.

By the end of primary school, pupils at Higham are confident, responsible and creative users of technology who are well prepared to participate safely and successfully in an increasingly digital world.