Computing

Overview

At Rathfern Primary School, our Computing curriculum prepares pupils to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world. Using the Purple Mash scheme of work, we deliver engaging lessons across three strands: Computer Science, Information Technology, and Digital Citizenship. Pupils learn to think computationally, create and evaluate digital content, and navigate online environments safely and ethically. Through a blend of practical programming, creative projects, and critical discussions, we foster adaptability, problem-solving, and responsible technology use. By the end of Key Stage 2, pupils are confident, discerning digital citizens equipped with the skills and understanding to use technology creatively, collaboratively, and responsibly in school and beyond.

Intent

What is the purpose of computing? What should the purpose of computing be?
Computing should enhance human life by solving real-world problems and fostering creativity, innovation, and efficiency. It is not an end in itself; its development and application must align with ethical principles and global responsibilities, including sustainability and digital equity.

What are the aims of our Computing Curriculum?
In a world shaped by rapid technological change, pupils must be digitally adaptable and critically aware. Our curriculum equips them to use technology confidently, creatively, and responsibly, while understanding its impact on society and the environment. We aim to close the digital divide and challenge gender and cultural imbalances in technology-related fields.

Our curriculum is structured around the three core strands of Computing:

✅ Computer Science

Pupils learn how computers and systems work, how they are designed and programmed, and how digital processes enable change in the real and virtual world. They:

understand what algorithms are
create, debug and improve programs
predict and explain behaviour using logical reasoning
design and write programs to accomplish specific goals using sequence, selection, and repetition
work with variables, input and output
solve problems through decomposition and computational thinking

✅ Information Technology

Children learn to:

select, use and combine software effectively
create, store, organise, manipulate and retrieve digital content
collect, analyse and present data
use a range of digital devices confidently
understand how technology is used in wider society

✅ Digital Citizenship / Online Safety

Pupils:

use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly
recognise acceptable and unacceptable behaviour online
protect personal information and privacy
identify risks and know how to report concerns
evaluate online content critically and use search technologies effectively

Through these strands, we nurture responsible, discerning digital citizens who can adapt to emerging technologies such as AI, automation, and cloud computing, while considering issues of privacy, security, and sustainability.

Core Aims in Summary

Use technology safely, responsibly, and ethically.
Apply computational thinking to solve problems creatively.
Respond to technological change with confidence and adaptability.
Develop transferable digital skills for lifelong learning.
Ensure equitable access and inclusion for all pupils.

Implementation

Our Computing curriculum is delivered through the Purple Mash scheme of work, ensuring full coverage of the National Curriculum and progression across Computer Science, Information Technology, and Digital Citizenship. Purple Mash provides structured units for each year group, with six units per year broken down into weekly lessons. These lessons include both plugged (device-based) and unplugged activities to develop computational thinking and problem-solving skills.

Teaching Approach

EYFS: Children experience computing through play-based activities, using age-appropriate technology such as interactive boards, programmable toys, and recording devices. Activities focus on early computational thinking skills like sequencing and pattern recognition.
KS1: Pupils learn what algorithms are, create and debug simple programs, and use technology purposefully to create and store digital content. Online safety is embedded in every unit.
KS2: Pupils design, write, and debug more complex programs, explore networks and the internet, and learn to evaluate digital content critically. They use a range of software and devices to collect, analyse, and present data.

Resources and Access

Every class can access a full class set of devices (Chromebooks or iPads), ensuring one-to-one availability during computing lessons. These devices are shared across the school. Purple Mash is accessible both in school and at home, supporting continuity of learning and parental engagement.

Online Safety

Online safety is taught explicitly at the start of each unit and reinforced throughout the year using Purple Mash’s dedicated e-safety resources. This includes lessons on privacy, secure passwords, respectful communication, and evaluating online content. In addition, elements of online safety are integrated into the SCARF PSHE curriculum, ensuring a whole-school approach to digital wellbeing and safeguarding. Parents are supported through workshops and home-school communication to promote safe technology use beyond school.

Assessment

Assessment is continuous and formative, using Purple Mash’s built-in tools such as self-assessment quizzes, teacher observations, and digital portfolios. Summative judgements are recorded termly using the 2Simple Computing Assessment Tool, which tracks progress against key learning objectives. Pupils are encouraged to reflect on their learning through peer and self-assessment.

Inclusion and Support

Lessons are differentiated to meet the needs of all learners, including those with SEND and EAL. Technology is used flexibly to provide additional access and support where needed. Staff receive ongoing CPD to ensure confidence in delivering the curriculum.

rathfern computing curriculum map 2025 26.pdf

Impact

The impact of our Computing curriculum is seen in pupils who are confident, creative, and responsible digital citizens, equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive in an increasingly digital world. By the end of Key Stage 2, pupils will:

Understand and apply key concepts in computer science, including algorithms, programming, and logical reasoning.
Use technology purposefully and effectively to create, store, and share content across a range of digital platforms.
Demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills, applying computational thinking in real-world contexts.
Navigate online environments safely and ethically, showing awareness of privacy, security, and respectful behaviour.
Adapt to emerging technologies such as AI tools and cloud-based systems, with an understanding of their benefits and risks.

Measuring Impact

Assessment: Progress is tracked through Purple Mash’s integrated assessment tools and teacher observations. Pupils maintain digital portfolios showcasing work across all three strands.
Pupil Voice: Regular feedback and self-assessment encourage reflection and ownership of learning.
Monitoring: The Computing Lead reviews attainment data, work samples, and teaching quality to ensure consistency and progression.
Outcomes: Most pupils achieve age-related expectations or above, and demonstrate readiness for the next stage of education and life in a digital society.

Our ultimate goal is to ensure that every child leaves primary school with secure digital skills, ethical awareness, and the confidence to learn and adapt in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

Progression of Skills

Progression of Knowledge