Computing

Here at Sturton By Stow Primary School, our aim is for Computing to give our children a range of opportunities that enable them to become knowledgeable, safe, purposeful and confident users of computers and digital devices. We want every child to develop the skills needed to use technology effectively in a variety of contexts, and to transfer these skills into their learning at school, their life at home, and their future experiences beyond the classroom.

Through our Computing curriculum, we want children to be:

safe and responsible digital users, who are aware of the risks online and understand the role they play in creating a safer internet;
able to use computing to make meaningful links across the curriculum, particularly in Maths, English, Science and Design and Technology;
confident in using, applying and understanding subject-specific terminology;
secure in understanding the principles of how digital systems work and able to apply this knowledge when creating programmes and a variety of digital content;
able to use ICT to express themselves in a wide range of ways.

Our Computing Curriculum

To support these aims, we use the Purple Mash Computing scheme. This is a powerful, comprehensive, inclusive and accessible programme that is aligned to the National Curriculum and the EYFS Framework. It provides a complete scheme of work designed to support teachers in securing the best possible outcomes for all pupils, regardless of their starting points.

Purple Mash exposes children to a wide range of computing knowledge, skills, experiences and real-life contexts. This helps to develop cultural capital and supports pupils in becoming thoughtful, informed and well-rounded global citizens. The learning in each year group is organised into carefully sequenced units covering three key strands:

Computer Science
Information Technology
Digital Literacy

All children experience high-quality Computing teaching supported by a carefully structured Scheme of Work. Within each unit, pupils are given opportunities to make strong progress and achieve well through scaffolding, structured activities and, where appropriate, open-ended application of skills. The Purple Mash Computing Scheme of Work enables pupils to develop knowledge, skills and understanding, including subject-specific vocabulary, through guided tutorials and opportunities to apply what they have learned in increasingly independent contexts.

Online Safety

Online safety is an essential part of our Computing provision and is woven throughout the curriculum. Children learn how to use technology responsibly, safely and respectfully, and are taught the importance of protecting personal information, identifying reliable content and responding appropriately to potential online risks. They are also encouraged to think carefully about their digital behaviour, including the impact of their words and actions online.

Pupils are taught age-appropriate strategies to help them make safe choices when using the internet, digital devices and online platforms. This includes understanding how to report concerns, who to talk to if something worries them, and how to develop positive habits that support safe and healthy digital lives.

Computing in EYFS

In the Early Years Foundation Stage, Computing is introduced through purposeful, practical and play-based experiences that support children’s understanding of technology in the world around them. Children explore how digital devices can be used to support learning, communication and creativity, while also developing the early foundations of computational thinking.

Through planned activities and meaningful adult support, children are encouraged to notice patterns, follow instructions, solve simple problems and use technology with increasing independence. In EYFS, Computing also supports communication and language, personal development and creativity, helping children to build confidence and curiosity as they begin their journey as digital learners.