A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. By building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. At Grange Park, our intent is that computing ensures pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.

Our use of the Kapow scheme of work ensures that all pupils:

• can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation.
• can analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems.
• can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems
• are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.

Beyond the computing curriculum, our use of 1:1 Chromebooks for all KS1 and KS2 pupils ensures digital technology supports other curriculum subjects by, for instance, providing access to a wide range of source material, developing enquiry skills, promoting collaboration between pupils and enabling the presentation of information in increasingly diverse ways. IT can be used to support and scaffold the development of knowledge and skills and, for some pupils, removes the constraints of writing by concentrating on other forms of communicating learning such as discussion and use of drama. As well as learning how to stay safe online in specific e-safety sessions, pupils are supported to consider safe and appropriate use of digital technology in whichever context they use it. Our curriculum drivers of growth mindset, community, environment and language development shape every aspect of our use of digital technology, are embedded in teaching and learning and develop the child as a whole.