Computing

Vision

At Ryders Hayes, we believe every child can become a confident, creative and responsible computer scientist and digital learner. Our Computing curriculum inspires pupils to explore how technology works, create and solve problems using computational thinking, and build the knowledge, independence and resilience they need to thrive in an ever-changing digital world. We want our pupils to see technology not simply as something they use, but as a powerful tool that they can understand, create with and use to shape their future.

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Curriculum Drivers 

Through our Computing curriculum, pupils explore possibilities by investigating how technology works, asking questions, experimenting with digital tools and developing an understanding of the world of computing. Pupils create by applying computational thinking, programming and digital skills to design, develop, communicate and share their own ideas. Pupils build independence and resilience by solving problems, debugging code, testing ideas and learning from mistakes. They are encouraged to persevere when things do not work as expected and to recognise that making mistakes is an important part of the learning process.

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Intent

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Mastery of Core Computing Skills:
Develop progressive knowledge and skills across the three areas of Computing: Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy. Pupils develop their understanding of programming, algorithms, computational thinking, digital systems and data, alongside the ability to create and communicate using a range of digital technologies.

 

Creative Problem Solving:
Give pupils opportunities to investigate, design, create and solve problems using technology. Pupils are encouraged to think logically and creatively, experiment with different approaches, test their ideas and refine their solutions.

 

Digital Literacy and Online Safety:
Equip pupils with the knowledge, understanding and confidence to navigate the digital world safely, responsibly and respectfully. Pupils learn about online relationships, privacy, security, digital footprints, reliable information and how to recognise and respond to potential risks.

 

Digital Futures:
Develop pupils' understanding of how technology influences individuals, communities and the wider world. Through Computing, pupils develop skills and aspirations that prepare them for future learning, employment and life in an increasingly digital society.

 

Implementation

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A Progressive Curriculum:
Our Computing curriculum is carefully sequenced from EYFS to Year 6, building on prior knowledge and skills. Pupils revisit important concepts and develop increasing independence and sophistication in their use and understanding of technology.

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Explore, Create and Problem-Solve:
Lessons provide practical opportunities for pupils to explore technology, develop computational thinking and create digital outcomes. Pupils are encouraged to ask questions, make predictions, test ideas, debug problems and refine their work.

 

Developing Digital Skills:
Pupils use a range of age-appropriate devices, software and digital tools to support their learning. This includes programming environments, digital content creation, multimedia, digital communication and a range of technologies such as Chromebooks and iPads.

 

Online Safety Throughout:
Online safety is embedded throughout our Computing curriculum rather than taught as a standalone topic. Pupils are supported to develop safe, responsible and respectful digital habits and understand where to go for help when something online makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

 

Computing Vocabulary and Communication:
Pupils are taught the specific vocabulary needed to talk confidently about Computing. They are encouraged to explain their thinking, share ideas, evaluate their work and communicate their understanding using appropriate technical language.

 

Intended Impact

By the time children leave Ryders Hayes, they will be confident, capable and responsible users and creators of technology. They will understand key concepts within Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy and will be able to apply their knowledge to solve problems, create digital content and communicate their ideas. Our pupils will demonstrate independence when approaching digital challenges, resilience when things go wrong, and creativity when developing their own solutions. They will understand how to use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly and will recognise the opportunities and responsibilities that come with living in a digital world. Ultimately, we want every child to leave Ryders Hayes believing that they can explore, create and build with technology and that they have the skills, confidence and curiosity to continue learning in the digital world beyond primary school.