Wold Newton Foundation School

Computing Curriculum

Intent

At Wold Newton Foundation School, we recognise that technology is rapidly transforming the world around us. Our aim is to equip pupils with the life‑skills they need to embrace and participate confidently in a digital society where both work and leisure are shaped by developing technologies. We want children to become independent, capable and enthusiastic users of technology who can find, explore, analyse, exchange and present information safely and effectively.

Our Computing curriculum is designed to give pupils secure knowledge and skills across the three key strands of the National Curriculum:

• Computer Science – understanding how digital systems work and learning to program.

• Information Technology – using technology to store, retrieve, create and send information.

• Digital Literacy – evaluating digital content and using technology safely, respectfully and responsibly.

We want technology to support learning across the whole curriculum and to ensure that every child can access and enjoy computing. By the time pupils leave Wold Newton, we aspire for them to be confident, creative and safe users of technology who are ready for the next stage of their education.

Implementation

Computing is taught through a combination of discrete lessons and cross‑curricular opportunities, allowing pupils to develop depth in their knowledge and apply their skills in meaningful, real‑life contexts. Teachers use the Switched On: Computing scheme from Rising Stars as a starting point, adapting and enriching it with key skills from across the curriculum.

We are well‑resourced, with access to a computing suite, laptops, LearnPads and iPads. This ensures all pupils can use a wide range of devices both in computing lessons and across other subjects. Children also use software such as Scratch to create interactive stories, games and animations, helping them develop logical thinking, creativity and problem‑solving skills.

Online safety is woven throughout the curriculum so pupils learn how to use technology safely and respectfully. Teachers use progression documents to ensure learning builds year on year, and pupils have regular opportunities to revisit and strengthen key skills.

Impact

Our approach results in a fun, engaging and high‑quality computing curriculum where pupils develop confidence, independence and enjoyment in using technology. The impact of our curriculum can be seen in the digital work pupils produce and share, including examples uploaded to our school website for a wider audience to celebrate.

Teachers regularly evaluate pupils’ understanding, revisiting misconceptions and strengthening knowledge through topic‑based learning across the curriculum. By the time pupils leave Wold Newton, they will have developed secure foundations in computer science, information technology and digital literacy—skills that will support them in secondary school and prepare them for future life and work in an increasingly digital world.