SUCCESS FOR ALL

Curriculum Overview

The Computing curriculum is designed to equip pupils with the knowledge, skills and understanding required to thrive in an increasingly digital world. It develops pupils as confident, responsible and creative users of technology, while also building strong foundations in computational thinking and programming. The curriculum is ambitious, inclusive and carefully sequenced to ensure pupils build secure knowledge over time and are well prepared for further study and future employment.

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Curriculum Intent

The intent of the Computing curriculum is to ensure that pupils:

· Develop a secure understanding of computational thinking, including algorithms, decomposition, abstraction and logical reasoning.

· Gain knowledge of computing systems and networks, understanding how digital systems operate and communicate.

· Become confident creators of digital content, including media, data and programs, rather than passive consumers.

· Learn to program effectively, using a range of languages and environments with increasing complexity.

· Understand the impact of technology on individuals, society and the wider world, including ethical considerations.

· Use technology safely, responsibly and securely, developing strong digital citizenship.

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The curriculum prepares pupils for GCSE Computer Science and other digital pathways, while also equipping all pupils with essential digital skills that are transferable across the curriculum.

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Curriculum Design and Sequencing

The Computing curriculum is structured around clear knowledge threads that run throughout all key stages:

· Algorithms (AL)

· Programming (PG)

· Data and Information (DI)

· Computing Systems (CS)

· Networks (NW)

· Creating Media (CM)

· Effective Use of Tools (ET)

· Impact of Technology (IT)

· Safety and Security (SS)

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These threads ensure progression and coherence, with key concepts revisited and deepened over time.

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· Pupils begin by developing foundational digital literacy and safety, ensuring they can use technology responsibly and effectively.

· Early learning introduces simple algorithms and programming concepts, allowing pupils to understand how instructions control digital systems.

· As pupils progress, programming becomes more complex, incorporating variables, selection and iteration, and applying skills across different contexts.

· Knowledge of data and information develops from basic handling and representation to more advanced analysis and evaluation.

· Pupils explore computing systems and networks, building an understanding of hardware, software and how data is transmitted.

· Creative media projects allow pupils to apply technical knowledge while developing design skills and critical evaluation.

· At GCSE, pupils integrate these strands through increasingly challenging programming tasks, theoretical understanding and problem-solving activities.

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The sequencing ensures pupils move from concrete experiences to more abstract concepts, building confidence and fluency.

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Curriculum Implementation

The curriculum is implemented through:

· Explicit teaching of key concepts and vocabulary, supported by modelling and worked examples.

· Regular opportunities for hands-on programming and practical application.

· Project-based learning in creating media and data handling, reinforcing technical and creative skills.

· Frequent opportunities for retrieval and practice, strengthening long-term memory.

· Ongoing formative assessment to identify misconceptions and adapt teaching.

· Structured summative assessments and GCSE-style tasks to prepare pupils for external examination.

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Lessons promote problem-solving, resilience and independence, while providing appropriate scaffolding and challenge for all learners, including disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND.

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Curriculum Impact

The impact of the Computing curriculum is demonstrated through:

· Pupils developing secure and transferable digital and programming skills.

· Increasing confidence and independence in using technology creatively and responsibly.

· Strong understanding of how digital systems work and how technology affects society.

· Pupils are being well prepared for GCSE Computer Science and further study in computing-related subjects.

· Positive engagement and progression across key stages, evidenced through assessment outcomes and pupil work.

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By the end of the curriculum, pupils are digitally literate, computationally confident and equipped to participate successfully in a technology-driven world.

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Accessibility and Inclusion

The Computing curriculum is designed to be accessible to all pupils:

· Concepts are broken down into clear, manageable steps.

· Visual supports, modelling and guided practice are used routinely.

· Programming tasks are scaffolded and adapted where necessary.

· Opportunities for extension and challenge support higher-attaining pupils.

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Through this inclusive approach, all pupils are enabled to succeed and make strong progress in Computing.

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Curriculum Map