Computing is taught by our class teachers using the MGL Computing Scheme, which provides a carefully sequenced curriculum building knowledge and skills progressively from Nursery to Year 6. Through the three strands of Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy, children develop the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Alongside their classroom learning, children explore exciting areas of computing including programming, robotics and artificial intelligence, helping them understand both current and emerging technologies.

Intent

Our aim is to develop pupils who can use technology safely, effectively and purposefully. Through our curriculum, children learn to:

• Understand the principles of computer science, including algorithms, coding, computational thinking and data representation.
• Use technology creatively to communicate ideas, solve problems and present information.
• Become responsible, respectful and informed digital citizens.
• Understand how technology and artificial intelligence influence the world around them.
• Develop resilience, independence and confidence when using both familiar and unfamiliar technologies.

We want every child to leave Banks Road Primary School with the digital knowledge and skills needed to succeed in secondary education and beyond.

Computing is taught through three interconnected strands:

Computer Science

Children develop computational thinking and problem-solving skills through coding, algorithms, logical reasoning and data representation. New concepts are often introduced through practical "unplugged" activities before being applied using digital technology. For example, children may identify and correct errors in a set of written instructions before progressing to programming on a device.

Information Technology

Pupils learn to use a range of software and devices to create, organise, communicate and present information. These skills are reinforced across the wider curriculum, enabling children to use technology in meaningful and purposeful contexts, such as research, presentation and digital content creation.

Digital Literacy

Children learn how to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully. Online safety is taught throughout the year and reflects the ever-changing digital world. Pupils learn to evaluate online information critically, manage risks appropriately and understand how to be positive digital citizens.

The MGL Computing Scheme ensures clear progression in knowledge and skills across all year groups, whilst providing opportunities for children to revisit, practise and build upon prior learning.

Digital Leaders

Our Digital Leaders play an important role in promoting positive and responsible use of technology across the school. Every Key Stage 2 class has a minimum of two Digital Leaders. Children apply for the role by completing an application form, demonstrating how they embody our school values of Respect, Friendship, Determination, Trust and Positivity and how they can promote these values in a digital environment.

Digital Leaders are recognised with a special lanyard and take pride in acting as ambassadors for computing and online safety. They encourage positive digital behaviour, support their peers when using technology and help to promote a safe and respectful online culture throughout the school.

Through this leadership role, pupils develop confidence, responsibility and teamwork skills whilst contributing positively to school life and helping others make safe and informed choices online.

By the time they leave Banks Road Primary School, pupils will:

• Be confident and competent users of a range of digital technologies.
• Apply computational thinking and problem-solving skills independently.
• Create, evaluate and improve digital content using a variety of software and devices.
• Demonstrate a secure understanding of online safety and digital responsibility.
• Use appropriate technical vocabulary to explain their learning.
• Understand how technology, including artificial intelligence, impacts everyday life.
• Be well prepared for the next stage of their education and life in a rapidly evolving digital society.

The impact of our curriculum is evidenced through pupils' work, discussions with children, assessment opportunities and observations of learning. Children demonstrate increasing confidence, creativity and independence as they progress through school and are able to apply their computing knowledge across a range of subjects and real-world contexts.