Computing & Online Safety

At Longton, we recognise the vital role that primary school computing plays in preparing our pupils for the future. Taught by a specialist computing teacher, our high-quality computing curriculum empowers pupils to harness their computational thinking and creativity, allowing them to engage with and transform the world around them. With strong connections to mathematics, science, and design and technology, our programme delves into computer science principles, teaching pupils how digital systems function and equipping them with programming skills. We ensure that every child becomes digitally literate, proficient in using information and communication technology to create and express their ideas effectively. Online safety is an integral part of our curriculum, as we believe that while the online world offers immense value, it is essential for pupils to understand its potential dangers and possess the necessary tools to navigate challenges safely and responsibly.

Subject Leader - Iain Pearson

Curriculum Intent

At our school, we recognise Computing as a vital subject that prepares pupils for life in an increasingly digital world. Our Computing curriculum is designed to be ambitious, knowledge-rich and inclusive, enabling all pupils to develop the knowledge and skills needed to understand technology, create digital content and stay safe online.

Our intent is that pupils:

• Develop secure substantive knowledge in the three strands of the Computing curriculum: Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy

• Build strong disciplinary knowledge through problem solving, logical thinking and programming

• Understand how digital systems work, including networks, data and algorithms

• Use technology creatively to design, create and present digital content

• Develop a deep understanding of online safety and responsible use of technology

• Use appropriate computing vocabulary to explain their understanding

• Recognise the role of technology in the wider world and future careers

We use the Jam Coding Computing scheme to ensure clear progression of knowledge and skills from EYFS to Year 6 in line with the National Curriculum for Computing.

Curriculum Implementation

Computing is taught weekly using the Jam Coding curriculum by a specialist Computing teacher every Friday. This ensures pupils benefit from:

• Specialist subject knowledge and accurate modelling

• Consistent teaching of programming and technical skills

• High-quality delivery of online safety education

• Structured progression across all year groups

Lessons are carefully sequenced to:

• Revisit prior learning and build on previously taught skills

• Explicitly teach new computing knowledge and vocabulary

• Provide regular opportunities for hands-on use of technology

• Develop programming skills through logical thinking and problem solving

• Teach pupils how to create, edit and evaluate digital content

• Embed online safety throughout all units of learning

Jam Coding units ensure that pupils learn not only how to use technology, but how it works.

Inclusion and SEND

Computing is accessible to all pupils through:

• Step-by-step modelling and visual instructions

• Practical, hands-on learning with immediate feedback

• Scaffolded tasks and differentiated challenges

• Opportunities for paired and collaborative work

• Flexible outcomes allowing pupils to demonstrate learning in different ways

This ensures that all pupils, including those with SEND, can fully participate and succeed in Computing.

 

Assessment and Monitoring

Assessment in Computing is ongoing, formative and directly linked to the Jam Coding curriculum.

Teachers assess pupils through:

• Observation of pupils during practical tasks

• Discussion and use of computing vocabulary

• Review of digital work and programming outcomes

• Pupils’ ability to explain their thinking and problem-solving processes

Assessment information is recorded on Bromcom, providing leaders and parents with a clear overview of pupil progress in Computing.

How we know the curriculum is taught as intended

Leaders monitor the implementation of the Computing curriculum through:

• Review of Jam Coding unit coverage across year groups

• Lesson visits and discussions with pupils

• Monitoring of assessment information recorded on Bromcom

• Pupil voice to evaluate what pupils remember and can do over time

• Evidence of digital outcomes and programming progression

This ensures the taught curriculum matches the planned curriculum.

Curriculum Impact

As a result of our Computing provision, pupils:

• Understand how digital systems and programs work

• Develop confidence in coding, problem solving and creating digital content

• Use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly

• Apply computing skills across the curriculum

• Show enthusiasm and independence when using technology

• Are well prepared for further study of Computing at Key Stage 3

Assessment ensures that pupils know more, remember more and can do more in Computing over time.

Pupils leave our school with the knowledge, skills and understanding to be confident, safe and creative users of technology.

Overview of Learning

Other pages