Computing

Computing the Seahouses Way

To cultivate an enthusiasm for lifelong learning through a curriculum which reflects our rural and coastal context, adapting to the needs of our children- locally, nationally and globally.

Intent

At Seahouses Primary School, our Computing curriculum is designed to equip pupils with the foundational skills, knowledge, and understanding they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.

We believe that a high-quality computing education is not just about using devices, but about fostering computational thinking, creativity, and digital resilience.

Our goal is to give every child the skills, knowledge and confidence to use technology safely, creatively and in a socially responsible way. We support our children to be prepared for the careers of the future and to become positive members of a wider global community.

Implementation

Our curriculum is built upon the three core strands identified in the National Curriculum:

• Computer Science – the understanding of coding and programming across a range of physical devices and digital resources.
• Information Technology – the range of skills required to operate and manipulate specific programs, systems, and content.
• Digital Literacy – the knowledge required to use technology safely and to evaluate and react to any potential risks of the online/digital world. 

Across our 2-year rolling planning cycle, learning is sequenced to build knowledge, skills and vocabulary. Throughout units of work teachers will make links and encourage children to make links between past learning and new content. Our progression of skills document allows teachers to plan computing lessons to build on the previous knowledge and skills within each computing strand, whilst also meeting their year group expectations.

In line with our whole-school curriculum intent, Computing will be taught both discretely as a core subject, as well as being used across other aspects of our school curriculum, and linked to class topics where appropriate. Teachers have access to a wide range of resources to support learning, including our online virtual platform, School 360, as well as iLearn2, Barefoot Computing and Teach Computing. Assessment is informed by end of unit assessment, observations during lessons, verbal feedback and pupil voice.

Online safety is woven through every unit of work and revisited throughout the year, ensuring pupils build knowledge and confidence incrementally. Whole-school Internet Safety Days are timetabled to reinforce key messages. We also respond promptly to new incidents and emerging online threats, addressing any causes for concern as they arise. We empower children to recognise risks, seek help, and build a positive digital footprint. Parents are updated via the newsletter/School Facebook page of Internet Safety updates and guidance.

Impact

Reflecting our unique coastal location, we use technology to connect Seahouses pupils with the wider world, broadening their horizons and fostering global citizenship. Through our Computing curriculum, children build progressively on prior knowledge and skills, developing confidence and independence as users of technology. They learn to apply digital tools purposefully to achieve a range of outcomes at home and in school, while gaining a secure and comprehensive understanding of how technology shapes the world around them.

A key impact of our curriculum is that pupils develop the knowledge and skills needed to respond safely and responsibly to online situations. They are encouraged to think critically, ask why as well as how, and reflect on the role computing plays in their learning, development and well-being. This helps children to appreciate both the opportunities and the responsibilities that come with digital technology.

We recognise that finding the right balance with technology is essential for effective learning and a healthy lifestyle. Our approach supports pupils to understand this balance and to build habits they can carry forward into the next stage of education and beyond. Regular discussion between staff and pupils strengthens this understanding and embeds learning over time.

The impact of the curriculum is evident in the way pupils showcase, share, celebrate and publish their work. It is also demonstrated through digital evidence in School 360 and Google Drive, alongside regular observation of learning and assessment.