Computing

Intent 

At APSOL, our intent is to provide a high-quality, inclusive and engaging Computing curriculum that equips all pupils with the knowledge, skills and confidence to participate safely and successfully in an increasingly digital world.

Using the Kapow Primary Computing scheme, we deliver a progressive curriculum from the early years through to Year 6, ensuring that pupils build on their prior learning and develop a secure understanding of computer science, information technology and digital literacy.

We want our pupils to become confident, creative and responsible digital citizens. Through practical, purposeful and engaging experiences, children are encouraged to explore technology, solve problems, think logically and computationally, and use digital tools to communicate, create and express their ideas.

Our Computing curriculum aims to enable pupils to:

• Develop computational thinking through problem-solving, logical reasoning, algorithms and programming.
• Understand how technology works, developing knowledge of computer systems, networks and digital processes.
• Use technology creatively and purposefully to create, edit, present and communicate information.
• Develop digital literacy and confidence, selecting appropriate tools and technologies for different purposes.
• Become safe, responsible and respectful users of technology, understanding online risks and knowing how to protect themselves and others.
• Develop the skills to evaluate digital content critically, recognising that information found online is not always accurate or reliable.
• Explore technology with curiosity and creativity, developing resilience when solving problems and debugging errors.
• Recognise the opportunities and challenges presented by technology and understand its impact on individuals, communities and the wider world.
• Develop transferable skills such as collaboration, communication, independence, creativity and critical thinking.

At APSOL, we recognise that pupils have different levels of access to technology and different starting points. Our curriculum therefore provides equitable opportunities for all children to develop their digital skills, with appropriate support and challenge.

Implementation 

At APSOL, our Computing curriculum is implemented through the Kapow Primary Computing scheme, providing a clear, progressive and engaging programme of learning from the Early Years through to Year 6. The curriculum is carefully sequenced so that pupils revisit and build upon knowledge, vocabulary and skills as they move through the school.

Kapow's curriculum is structured around the three core areas of Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy, ensuring that pupils develop a balanced understanding of how technology works, how it can be used creatively and how to use it safely and responsibly.

Our implementation ensures that: 

• Computing is taught progressively across the school, with lessons building on prior learning and developing increasing levels of independence and complexity.
• Pupils have regular opportunities to develop practical computing skills, including programming, creating digital content, handling information, using networks and understanding computer systems.
• Computer Science is developed through activities involving algorithms, sequencing, programming, logical reasoning, problem-solving and debugging.
• Information Technology enables pupils to use a range of digital tools to create, manipulate, store and present information for different purposes.
• Digital Literacy and online safety are embedded throughout the curriculum, supporting pupils to become safe, respectful and responsible users of technology.
• Key vocabulary and concepts are explicitly taught and revisited, enabling pupils to communicate their understanding confidently.
• Lessons include opportunities for pupils to explore, investigate, create, collaborate, evaluate and solve problems, rather than simply follow instructions.
• Teachers adapt lessons and resources where necessary to meet the individual needs and starting points of pupils, ensuring accessibility and appropriate challenge for all.
• Computing skills are reinforced across the wider curriculum, giving pupils opportunities to apply their digital knowledge in meaningful contexts.
• Online safety learning is reinforced through Computing lessons, assemblies, pastoral provision and the wider school curriculum, ensuring that children understand how to make safe choices both in and outside school.
• Pupils are encouraged to develop resilience and independence, particularly when debugging code, solving problems or learning to use unfamiliar technology.
• Teachers use questioning, observation, practical activities and pupil outcomes to assess understanding and identify misconceptions or areas requiring further development.

Progression and assessment

The Kapow scheme provides a clear progression of knowledge and skills, allowing teachers to identify what pupils should know and be able to do at each stage. Teachers monitor learning through ongoing formative assessment, practical outcomes, questioning and discussion.