Computing at Elham Church of England Primary School

Intent

At Elham Church of England Primary School, our Computing curriculum helps pupils understand and use technology in a safe, positive and purposeful way. Guided by our Christian values of faith, community, achievement and empathy, we teach children to use technology thoughtfully, to treat others with respect online, and to make sensible choices when using digital tools.

Our aim is for all pupils to develop confidence and understanding in the three key areas of the Computing curriculum: computer science, information technology and digital literacy. Pupils learn how computers and digital systems work, how to create simple programs, how to use technology to organise and present information, and how to stay safe online. Online safety is a central part of our curriculum and is revisited regularly so that children are well prepared for the digital world they are growing up in.

As a small school with mixed-age classes, we follow a two-year rolling programme to ensure full coverage of the National Curriculum. This approach allows pupils to revisit and build on their learning over time, deepening their understanding while making sure learning is age-appropriate and well matched to our setting. Our curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, supporting all pupils, including those with SEND and disadvantaged pupils, to make strong progress from their starting points.

Implementation

Computing is taught using the Kapow scheme of work, which provides a clear and engaging curriculum aligned with National Curriculum expectations and government guidance. The scheme is well suited to mixed-age teaching and supports a spiral approach, allowing pupils to revisit key skills and concepts across the two-year cycle.

Lessons are carefully planned and sequenced so that learning builds step by step. Teachers clearly explain and model new skills, introduce key vocabulary, and provide practical opportunities for pupils to apply what they have learned. Discussion and reflection are encouraged so pupils can talk about their learning and develop confidence in using technical language.

Online safety is taught explicitly and regularly across all year groups. Pupils learn how to keep personal information safe, how to behave respectfully online, how to recognise potential risks, and what to do if something makes them feel uncomfortable. This reflects current government guidance and supports wider safeguarding and wellbeing priorities across the school.

Computing is also used to support learning in other subjects, such as research, data handling, presentation and creative work. Teachers use assessment to check understanding, identify any gaps and adapt teaching where needed, ensuring all pupils can access and enjoy the full curriculum.

Impact

The impact of our Computing curriculum is that pupils leave Elham as confident and capable users of technology. They understand how digital systems work, can create and improve simple programs, and can use technology to support their learning across the curriculum.

Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of online safety and know how to keep themselves safe and behave responsibly when using technology. They are able to communicate respectfully online and understand that their actions can affect others.

All pupils, including those with SEND and disadvantaged pupils, make good progress because learning is carefully structured, revisited over time and taught with high expectations. Pupils develop confidence, independence and resilience, as well as kindness and respect for others, reflecting the school’s values in both their digital and everyday lives.

The effectiveness of the Computing curriculum is reviewed through lesson visits, work scrutiny, pupil voice and assessment, ensuring that our provision remains relevant, engaging and ambitious for all learners.