Intent:

At Woodvale, our vision is 'everyone thriving' and our Computing curriculum aims to foster our three curriculum drivers: developing oracy, embracing cultural richness, and nurturing social intelligence. At the heart of our approach is a belief that computing is not simply about using technology; our intent for computing is that children will:-

• develop the knowledge and skills needed to understand and thrive in an increasingly digital world
• become confident, creative and responsible users of technology
• develop computational thinking and problem-solving skills through programming and computer science
• use a range of digital tools purposefully to create, communicate and present information
• understand how data and information are collected, organised and used
• learn how to stay safe, respectful and responsible when using technology online

Oracy is a fundamental driver in our curriculum. Through computing, children are encouraged to explain algorithms, discuss solutions to problems, evaluate digital content and communicate their ideas using appropriate technical vocabulary. As pupils progress, they become increasingly confident at articulating their thinking, justifying decisions and presenting their work to different audiences. 

Diversity is another of our curriculum drivers. Computing provides opportunities for children to explore how technology connects people, communities and cultures across the world. Pupils learn how digital technologies are used globally for communication, collaboration and innovation whilst also developing an understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented by the online world. 

Social intelligence is a key focus within our computing curriculum. Children learn to collaborate, share ideas and work responsibly when using technology. Through online safety education, pupils develop an understanding of respectful online behaviour, digital citizenship and the importance of keeping themselves and others safe. They learn that technology has the power to bring people together and that responsible use of technology is essential in modern society.

Implementation:

At Woodvale, computing is taught through a carefully sequenced curriculum that develops children's knowledge and skills across computer science, information technology and digital literacy. Learning builds progressively from EYFS through to Year 6, enabling children to become increasingly confident and independent users of technology.

There are several features that run throughout all of our computing teaching:-

Developing programming and computational thinking through algorithms, coding, debugging and problem-solving.

Understanding data and information through databases, spreadsheets and data handling projects.

Teaching online safety throughout the curriculum so that children can use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully.

Developing digital literacy by helping pupils understand networks, the internet, online communication and the reliability of digital information.

Impact

We will know that the intent of our computing curriculum is successful through:-

• our children demonstrating confidence and competence when using a range of digital technologies
• our children creating, evaluating and improving digital content for different purposes and audiences
• our children applying computational thinking and programming skills to solve problems
• our children collecting, analysing and presenting data effectively
• our children using appropriate technical vocabulary accurately and confidently
• our children understanding how to stay safe, responsible and respectful online
• our children being well prepared for the technological demands of secondary education and modern life

Through computing, our children develop the knowledge, creativity and critical thinking skills needed to become confident digital citizens. They leave Woodvale equipped to use technology safely, responsibly and effectively whilst understanding its role in an increasingly connected world.