Computing Intent
The intent of the computing curriculum at St. Aidan’s Church of England Primary School is to equip pupils with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
It aims to develop computational thinking and creativity, enabling children to understand and change the world through technology.
By teaching pupils how digital systems work, how to program, and how to apply information technology, the curriculum ensures they become digitally literate and responsible users of technology. Purple Mash is used to ensure preparation for not only further education but also for active participation in a digitally interconnected society.
Computing Aims
The computing curriculum at St. Aidan’s aims to equip pupils with a strong foundation in computational thinking, digital literacy, and practical skills to confidently use and understand technology.
It seeks to develop children’s ability to solve problems, design and create programs, and understand how computers and digital systems work.
The curriculum emphasises creativity, logical reasoning, and safe, responsible use of technology, ensuring pupils become competent and confident users of digital tools. It also encourages pupils to understand the impact of technology on society and to foster a curiosity and enthusiasm for exploring new technological innovations.
The Purple Mash and Computing Curriculum principles focus on progressive learning, accessibility for all children, and integrating computing across other subjects to prepare pupils for the digital world.
Computing Implementation
At. St. Aidan’s the implementation of the computing curriculum involves a structured approach to ensure that students develop essential digital literacy, programming skills, and an understanding of computer science concepts from an early age. The Purple Mash curriculum ensures his this is taught in a progressive, structured manner.
Teachers receive specialised training and resources to deliver age-appropriate lessons that cover key areas such as algorithms, data handling, online safety, and computational thinking. Teachers can also access their own CPD through The Purple mash platform.
The curriculum is integrated across different year groups, with progressive complexity to match students’ developmental stages. Practical activities using various technologies, including coding platforms and digital tools, encourage active learning and creativity.
Regular assessment and feedback help monitor students’ progress, while collaboration with parents and the wider school community supports the reinforcement of computing skills beyond the classroom.
Overall, this implementation aims to equip pupils with the confidence and competence to navigate and contribute to a digital world effectively.
Computing Impact
The computing curriculum has significantly transformed the way students engage with technology and develop essential digital skills. It has ensured that pupils gain foundational knowledge in computer science, programming, and digital literacy from an early age, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
The curriculum promotes creativity through coding and encourages safe and responsible use of technology, which is vital in today’s digital world. Additionally, it supports teachers by providing a clear framework and resources to deliver structured computing lessons, helping to bridge gaps in digital education.
Overall, the curriculum equips young learners with the confidence and competence to navigate and contribute to an increasingly technology-driven society.
Spirituality in Computing
Spirituality weaves through every aspect of life at St. Aidan’s, permeating our vision, culture, and daily practices. Our pupils have enquiring minds and want to learn about themselves, others and the world.
Through our ambitious and broad curriculum, children have opportunities to ignite their interests and talents. Rich spiritual opportunities exist across the computing curriculum for all children at every age.
Spirituality can manifest through computing as our pupils engage in the exploration of technology with a mindful and reflective approach. Through activities such as coding, digital storytelling, interactive simulations and creating videos, our children can express their imaginative and spiritual dimensions. Computing lessons may encourage contemplation on the ethical use of technology, fostering a sense of responsibility and mindfulness in the digital realm. Additionally, collaborative projects and discussions about the impact of technology on society provide opportunities for our children to reflect on their values and connections to the broader world. As our children navigate the digital landscape, they can develop a rounded understanding of spirituality that encompasses both the tangible and virtual aspects of their lives, fostering a balanced and though ul approach to technology.
The computing curriculum has been designed with many opportunities for spiritual development in mind.
▪ The wonder of worldwide instant communication.
▪ The speed of the growth of knowledge.
▪ The accessibility of knowledge and contact with other people worldwide.
Computing Curriculum Overview