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Computing

Computing at Manuden Primary School

A small school with big ideas… Growing hearts, Growing minds, Growing dreams!

"Computers are like bicycles for the mind"

Steve Jobs

Our Intent

At Manuden Primary School, we recognise that computing is an essential part of modern life. Our computing curriculum aims to equip pupils with the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to participate confidently and safely in a rapidly changing digital world.

Through engaging and practical lessons, pupils learn how technology works, how to use it responsibly and how to create their own digital content. Computing supports our school vision of growing hearts, growing minds and growing dreams by developing creative, resilient and responsible learners who are confident using technology to explore ideas, solve problems and communicate with others.

We also recognise that technology is evolving rapidly. As part of our curriculum, pupils begin to develop an understanding of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and learn about the importance of using these tools safely, responsibly and critically.

Our Implementation

Planning and Curriculum Structure

At Manuden Primary School, computing is taught using the National Centre for Computing Education Teach Computing curriculum. This nationally recognised programme ensures that our computing curriculum is carefully sequenced and fully aligned with the National Curriculum.

The Teach Computing scheme supports teachers to deliver high-quality lessons that build pupils’ knowledge progressively across three key areas:

  • Computer Science – understanding how computers work and learning to code

  • Information Technology – using technology purposefully to create and organise digital content

  • Digital Literacy – understanding how to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully

Lessons build carefully on prior knowledge so that pupils develop increasing confidence and independence as digital learners.

Digital Skills and Programming

Pupils learn the fundamentals of programming through a range of age-appropriate tools and platforms. As they move through the school, they develop skills in:

  • Creating and debugging simple programs

  • Understanding algorithms and sequences

  • Using logical reasoning to predict outcomes

  • Designing and creating digital projects

These experiences help pupils develop computational thinking and problem-solving skills.

Online Safety, AI and Digital Responsibility

Online safety is a key part of our computing curriculum. Pupils are taught how to use technology safely and responsibly, including understanding:

  • How to keep personal information safe online

  • How to behave respectfully in digital spaces

  • What to do if something online makes them feel uncomfortable or worried

  • How to manage screen time and digital wellbeing

Pupils are also introduced to artificial intelligence (AI). They learn that AI tools can support learning, but that outputs should always be checked and human judgement is essential.

Understanding Online Information and Fake News

Pupils learn that not everything they see online is accurate or trustworthy. They develop critical thinking skills by learning to:

  • Recognise when information may be misleading or manipulated

  • Question the reliability of sources

  • Identify potential misinformation or “fake news”

These skills help pupils become responsible and informed digital citizens.

Vocabulary and Knowledge

Computing vocabulary is explicitly taught and revisited across each unit. Teachers ensure that pupils understand key technical language so they can explain their thinking and apply their knowledge confidently.

Retrieval activities and regular revisiting of key concepts help pupils build secure and lasting understanding.

Assessment

Assessment in computing takes place through:

  • Ongoing teacher assessment during lessons

  • Practical outcomes from digital tasks and projects

  • Retrieval activities to check understanding of key concepts

  • End-of-unit reflections on learning

This enables teachers to monitor progress and ensure that all pupils develop the knowledge and skills expected for their age.

Computing in the Early Years (EYFS)

In the Early Years at Manuden Primary School, computing is introduced through the Understanding the World area of learning. Children explore technology in practical and meaningful ways, including:

  • Using tablets, cameras and interactive whiteboards

  • Creating pictures, stories and games with age-appropriate programmes

  • Developing early problem-solving skills through programmable toys and digital activities

  • Talking about how technology is used at home and in the wider world

Children also begin to learn about safe use of technology, laying a foundation for responsible digital learning throughout the school.

Computing in the Wider Curriculum

Computing is embedded across all subjects at Manuden Primary School, helping pupils apply digital skills creatively and practically. Examples include:

  • Science – using sensors, data logging and digital tools to record and analyse investigations

  • Mathematics – creating charts, graphs and spreadsheets to interpret data

  • English – drafting, editing and publishing writing digitally

  • Geography and History – researching online, creating digital maps and timelines

  • Art and Design – producing digital artwork, animations and multimedia projects

  • PSHE and Citizenship – exploring online safety, digital responsibility and ethical use of technology

This cross-curricular approach reinforces learning and helps pupils become confident, independent digital learners.

Online Safety at Manuden Primary School

We believe that teaching pupils how to stay safe online is a vital part of education. Online safety is taught regularly in computing lessons and reinforced throughout the wider curriculum. Pupils learn:

  • How to keep personal information safe online

  • Respectful behaviour in digital spaces

  • How to recognise and respond to online risks

  • How to report concerns and seek help from trusted adults

  • How to evaluate the reliability of online content

These lessons include understanding emerging technologies such as AI, and emphasise responsible and thoughtful use of all digital tools.

The Impact of Our Computing Curriculum

By the time pupils leave Manuden Primary School, they will:

  • Understand fundamental computing principles, including programming and algorithms

  • Be able to use technology purposefully to create, organise and present digital content

  • Demonstrate strong digital literacy, including online safety and responsible technology use

  • Be able to critically evaluate online information and identify fake news

  • Have a foundational understanding of emerging technologies, including AI, and their responsible use

Pupils leave Manuden as curious, capable, and responsible digital citizens, confident in applying their computing skills across the curriculum and in everyday life.