Computing Curriculum Lead
Mrs Smith
Curriculum Intent
At St. John's, we recognise the vital role that computing plays in preparing pupils for a rapidly evolving digital world. Our intent is to equip all learners, including those in mixed-age classes, with the knowledge, skills, and understanding they need to thrive as digital citizens. We aim to develop pupils who are confident, creative, and safe users of technology, with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think computationally.
Our computing curriculum, delivered through Purple Mash, is designed to:
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Provide a broad and balanced experience that progressively builds skills across the three strands of computing: Computer Science, Information Technology, and Digital Literacy.
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Promote e-safety awareness at every stage, ensuring pupils understand how to use technology responsibly.
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Encourage cross-curricular opportunities where technology supports wider learning and communication.
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Address the needs of mixed-age classes through a spiral curriculum model, allowing children to revisit and deepen their understanding of key concepts over time.
Implementation
Computing is taught weekly through discrete lessons using the Purple Mash Computing Scheme of Work, which is fully aligned with the National Curriculum. This scheme provides comprehensive, age-appropriate resources that support progression across year groups and allow for flexibility in mixed-age settings. Where appropriate, lessons are adapted to ensure that all pupils are challenged and supported, regardless of age or ability.
In addition:
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Teachers follow long-term and medium-term plans which ensure consistent coverage and progression.
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Lessons are interactive and practical, often involving the use of tablets, laptops, and online tools.
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Mixed-age teaching is supported by careful grouping and differentiated tasks within the Purple Mash platform, allowing all children to access learning at their level while revisiting or extending skills as needed.
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E-safety is embedded throughout the year and supported by national initiatives such as Safer Internet Day and school-wide digital citizenship work.
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Opportunities are provided for pupils to apply their computing skills across the curriculum, such as using digital media in English or presenting data in Maths and Science.
Impact
By the end of each key stage, pupils will have developed:
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A secure understanding of the key concepts in computing, including coding, data handling, and multimedia design.
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The ability to use a range of technology tools confidently and appropriately for different tasks.
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A strong understanding of how to stay safe online and how to act responsibly in digital spaces.
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Problem-solving and logical thinking skills that support their learning across the curriculum.
Progress is monitored through formative assessment within lessons, summative assessments at the end of each unit, and regular pupil discussions and digital portfolio reviews. As a result of our computing curriculum, children leave our school as digitally literate learners, well-prepared for the challenges of the next stage in their education and for life in an increasingly digital society.