At Clover Hill Primary School, we recognise that Computing prepares pupils to participate safely, confidently, and creatively in a digital world. We aim to develop computational thinking, digital literacy, and responsible technology use in line with the National Curriculum for Computing.

Intent

We want children at Clover Hill to:

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

In Key Stage 1 it is our aim to teach pupils to:

• understand what algorithms are, how they are implemented as programs on digital devices, and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions
• create and debug simple programs
• use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs
• use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content
• recognise common uses of information technology beyond school
• use technology safely and respectfully, keeping personal information private; identify where to go for help and support when they have concerns about content or contact on the internet or other online technologies
   

In Key Stage 2 it is our aim to teach pupils to:

• design, write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals, including controlling or simulating physical systems; solve problems by decomposing them into smaller parts
• use sequence, selection, and repetition in programs; work with variables and various forms of input and output
• use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and to detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs
• understand computer networks, including the internet; how they can provide multiple services, such as the World Wide Web, and the opportunities they offer for communication and collaboration
• use search technologies effectively, appreciate how results are selected and ranked, and be discerning in evaluating digital content
• select, use and combine a variety of software (including internet services) on a range of digital devices to design and create a range of programs, systems and content that accomplish given goals, including collecting, analysing, evaluating and presenting data and information
• use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly; recognise acceptable/unacceptable behaviour; identify a range of ways to report concerns about content and contact

The 3 key drivers for our curriculum at Clover Hill are full integrated within our computing curriculum.

Implementation

The Computing curriculum at Clover Hill uses a variety of online software to deliver the currciulum.  Staff work with their year group “Computing Overview” which incorporates all aspects of the computing curriculum; computer science (coding), online safety, digital literacy and ICT. It is our aim for programming tasks to reinforce earlier learning by reuse of previous learning plus incremental addition of new learning. The practical nature of coding means activities can also be re-visited as appropriate to address any areas that have not been understood before moving learning on. We promote opportunities for discussion and reflection at appropriate times within our computing lessons.

The ICT suite houses our desktop PCs enabling each child access to their own machine; paired and group work is also encouraged as appropriate. All classes have at least one desktop PC, (with upper key stage 2 classes having six) that can also be used by children to support many areas of the curriculum not solely computing. Computing is taught as discrete lessons but also links with many other areas of the curriculum and is used to support the teaching of subjects such as English, maths, history, science, geography etc.  We have a class set of IPADS which are used weekly for spelling, computing and enquiry based learning.

Impact

Our Clover Hill Computing curriculum empowers children to become confident, curious, and responsible users of technology. Through hands-on learning, pupils develop problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and creativity while learning how digital systems work. They gain a strong foundation in coding, online safety, and digital literacy, helping them to collaborate, think critically, and express their ideas in new ways. Most importantly, our curriculum prepares children for a rapidly changing digital world, giving them skills and confidence that support learning across all subjects and beyond the classroom.

Curriculum Organisation

Computing is taught through three main strands:

a) Computer Science

• Understanding what algorithms are and how they work
• Creating and debugging simple programs
• Using logical reasoning to predict and explain program behaviour

b) Information Technology

• Using technology purposefully to create, organise, store, and manipulate digital content
• Developing skills in word processing, presentations, coding tools, data handling, and multimedia

c) Digital Literacy

• Using technology safely, respectfully, and responsibly
• Recognising acceptable and unacceptable online behaviour
• Knowing where to go for help and how to report concerns

Teaching and Learning

• Computing is taught weekly across Key Stages 1 and 2
• Lessons are practical, engaging, and progressive following the Teach Computing Scheme of Work
• Cross-curricular links are encouraged (e.g. coding in maths, research in history)

• Pupils are given opportunities to work independently and collaboratively

Online Safety

Online safety is taught explicitly and regularly, both within Computing lessons and through the wider curriculum (e.g. PSHE, assemblies).
Key areas include:

Keeping personal information private

Understanding digital footprints

Online relationships and communication

Reporting concerns and seeking help

Inclusion

Inclusion is woven through every aspect of teaching and learning. Lessons are carefully designed to be accessible to all pupils, offering multiple entry points so every child can engage and succeed, regardless of their starting point or learning style. We use a range of resources—including unplugged activities, scaffolding, visual supports and collaborative tasks—to ensure that children with diverse needs can participate meaningfully. Technology is also used to remove barriers, such as screen readers and adaptive devices. Above all, our approach encourages teamwork, creativity and problem‑solving, helping every child feel valued, confident and capable as a young digital learner.

Equal Opportunities

All pupils have equal access to the computing curriculum.

Assessment

Ongoing formative assessment through observation, discussion, and work outcomes

Assessment focuses on skills, understanding, and application,

Progress is tracked against National Curriculum objectives

Resources

The school uses a range of resources, which include:

Desktop computers in the ICT suite and a class set of tablets, 

Age-appropriate software and online platforms 

Coding tools (e.g. Scratch, Beebots, Micro:bit)

Enrichment Opportunities

Educational visits and outdoor learning experiences are organised to enhance pupils’ understanding of computing in real-world contexts.