Computing Intent

At Farsley Springbank, we believe that computing and digital technologies are vital in preparing children for life in an ever-evolving, technology-rich world. Our Computing curriculum empowers pupils to become confident, creative and responsible digital citizens who use technology to learn, communicate and express themselves safely and purposefully. Rooted in our school values of Courageous, Kind and Curious, our curriculum nurtures children who approach the digital world with confidence, compassion and a genuine desire to explore.

Our six Curriculum Drivers shape every element of our Computing curriculum:

• Independence is fostered as children take ownership of their learning, exploring and experimenting with programs and digital tools. They learn to solve problems, make informed decisions and show courage when tackling new challenges.
• Determination underpins our approach to computational thinking. Pupils are encouraged to debug, adapt and refine their work with resilience, pride and kindness towards themselves as learners.
• Curiosity drives exploration and creativity. Children are encouraged to investigate how technology works, ask questions and discover how digital tools can make a positive impact on the world.
• Risk-Taking is celebrated when learners step outside their comfort zones, try new technologies and embrace mistakes as opportunities to grow.
• Collaboration is strengthened through projects that require teamwork, communication and shared problem-solving — reflecting the connected, global nature of modern technology.
• Respect lies at the heart of all digital learning. Children are taught to use technology safely, ethically and kindly, showing respect for themselves, others and the wider digital environment.

Through these drivers, our Computing curriculum builds not only digital competence but also character, creativity and confidence. Our aim is for every child to leave Farsley Springbank equipped with the skills, mindset and values to thrive in a digital future — as Courageous, Kind and Curious learners ready to make a positive difference.

Computing Implementation

Our Computing curriculum is carefully designed and adapted to meet the needs of the children at Farsley Springbank. We follow the Teach Computing scheme, which provides a clear and well-sequenced progression of knowledge and skills, ensuring broad, balanced coverage of the National Curriculum. This structure enables pupils to revisit and deepen their understanding over time.

Computing is taught in discrete lessons, allowing children to develop and practise essential skills before applying them across the wider curriculum — enriching other subjects. Lessons are engaging, hands-on and inclusive, using a blend of unplugged activities and digital tools to make learning meaningful and accessible to all. Through a range of modern technologies, children develop ideas, explore, analyse and present information responsibly and creatively.

Our Curriculum Drivers, supported by our values Courageous, Kind and Curious, underpin all aspects of implementation:

• Independence is nurtured as children make decisions, solve problems and take initiative in their computing work.
• Determination grows as pupils debug, overcome challenges and persevere when things do not go to plan.
• Curiosity inspires children to question, explore and understand how digital systems work.
• Risk-Taking is encouraged as learners try new technologies, test ideas and learn from both success and mistakes.
• Collaboration is developed through paired and group activities where pupils communicate, share ideas and support one another.
• Respect guides all learning, particularly in online contexts where children practise safe, ethical and kind behaviour.

Our Computing curriculum is organised around three key strands:

Computer Science

At the core of our curriculum is computer science, where pupils learn how digital systems work and how to apply this knowledge through programming. This ensures children become not only users of technology but creators of it. Programming units feature in every year group, enabling pupils to revisit, reflect and build upon their understanding — including through physical computing.

Digital Literacy and Online Safety

Online safety is fundamental. We equip pupils to make safe, kind and responsible online choices and to build a positive digital reputation. Each academic year begins with a dedicated Online Safety half term, using Project Evolve materials to introduce essential concepts. These themes are revisited throughout the year, including during Safer Internet Day and Anti-Bullying Week, and are further embedded within our RSE curriculum, where children learn about boundaries, respectful communication and digital wellbeing.

Information Technology

Pupils gain a secure understanding of how computers work and how they are used in the wider world. They explore the components inside a computer, learn how inputs and outputs function and study computer systems and networks. This strand helps pupils appreciate how technology connects people, processes and information globally, inspiring curiosity and responsible participation in a digital society.

Computing long term plan

Computing progression map