Computing

Computing at St Martin’s equips children with the skills and confidence to thrive in a digital world. Using the Teach Computing curriculum from the National Centre for Computing Education, pupils develop a strong foundation in programming, data handling, and digital literacy. Lessons are engaging, inclusive, and carefully sequenced to build knowledge over time. Alongside technical skills, we prioritise online safety through Project Evolve lessons, helping children understand how to stay safe, respectful, and responsible online. Computing at St Martin’s empowers learners to be creators, problem-solvers, and informed digital citizens in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

At St Martin's, Computing is more than a subject—it’s a gateway to digital creativity, problem-solving, and future-ready skills.

Intent

Our computing curriculum is designed to inspire and equip pupils with the essential skills, knowledge, and understanding to become confident, creative, and responsible users of technology. We aim to develop pupils’ competence across the three strands of computing: computer science, information technology, and digital literacy. By following the Teach Computing scheme, we ensure that our curriculum is research-informed, inclusive, and aligned with the national curriculum. Pupils learn to understand and apply the fundamental principles of computer science, including logic, algorithms, and programming. They also develop practical skills in using a range of digital tools for communication, content creation, and data handling.

Online safety is a core element of our curriculum and is taught explicitly and progressively using Project Evolve, which is based on the UKCIS framework Education for a Connected World. This ensures that pupils are not only digitally literate but also aware of how to navigate the online world safely, respectfully, and responsibly. Our intent is to prepare pupils for the digital demands of modern life, fostering curiosity, resilience, and ethical awareness in their use of technology.

Implementation

Computing is taught in blocks across all year groups, ensuring consistent exposure and progression. We use the Teach Computing scheme to deliver a structured and coherent curriculum that builds on prior learning and supports pupils in developing both theoretical understanding and practical skills. Each unit is carefully sequenced to introduce and revisit key concepts such as programming, data representation, networks, and systems. Lessons are designed to be engaging and accessible, using a mix of plugged and unplugged activities to support different learning styles and needs.

Teachers are supported with high-quality resources, including lesson plans, slides, and assessment materials, which ensure consistency and clarity in delivery. The curriculum is inclusive, with scaffolding and differentiation built into each unit to support all learners, including those with SEND. Pupils use a variety of devices and software, gaining hands-on experience with coding platforms, multimedia tools, and data-handling applications.

Online safety is taught through Project Evolve, which provides age-appropriate content mapped to the Education for a Connected World framework. This ensures that pupils receive regular, relevant, and meaningful instruction on topics such as self-image, online relationships, privacy, and digital footprint. Online safety lessons are integrated into computing sessions and revisited throughout the year, with opportunities for discussion, reflection, and scenario-based learning.

Cross-curricular links are made where appropriate, allowing pupils to apply their computing skills in subjects such as maths, science, and English. We also provide enrichment opportunities through coding clubs, digital projects, and themed days to further engage pupils and extend their learning.

Impact

The impact of our computing curriculum is evident in the confidence, competence, and creativity of our pupils when using technology. Through regular assessment—both formative and summative—teachers monitor progress and identify areas for support or extension. Pupils demonstrate a secure understanding of key computing concepts and can apply their knowledge in practical contexts, such as designing algorithms, debugging code, creating digital content, and analysing data.

Our pupils are digitally literate and understand how to use technology safely and responsibly. They can articulate the risks associated with online activity and demonstrate positive behaviours when interacting in digital environments. The use of Project Evolve ensures that pupils are well-informed about online safety and can make thoughtful decisions about their digital lives.

By the end of Key Stage 2, pupils are well-prepared for the next stage of their education, having developed logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and an appreciation for the role of technology in society. They are equipped not only with technical skills but also with the ethical and social awareness needed to thrive in a connected world. The impact of our curriculum is reflected in pupils’ growing independence, resilience, and enthusiasm for computing, as well as their ability to collaborate, communicate, and innovate using digital tools.

Year Group Overviews

Whole School LTP

Big Ideas

Our computing curriculum is underpinned by the big ideas of digital literacy, computational thinking, creativity, and responsible digital citizenship. These themes guide pupils to understand how technology works, how to use it effectively, and how to stay safe online. We promote problem-solving, logical reasoning, and resilience through coding and digital projects.

Online safety is a core concept, embedded through Project Evolve, helping pupils navigate the digital world with confidence and care. These ideas are revisited across year groups to deepen understanding and prepare pupils for a future shaped by technology.

Content

Our curriculum covers all aspects of the national computing curriculum, including computer science, information technology, and digital literacy. Pupils learn programming, data handling, networks, and systems, alongside creative tasks such as video editing and digital publishing. Online safety is taught explicitly using Project Evolve, covering topics like privacy, self-image, and online relationships. The curriculum is enriched through coding clubs and digital enrichment activities, allowing pupils to explore computing beyond the classroom. Each unit is designed to build knowledge and skills progressively, ensuring pupils develop a broad and balanced understanding of computing.

Sequencing

Our computing curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure progression in knowledge, skills, and understanding. Units build on prior learning, with key concepts revisited and deepened over time. For example, programming begins with simple instructions and evolves into complex algorithms and debugging. The Teach Computing scheme ensures logical progression across year groups, with clear links between topics. Online safety is sequenced using Project Evolve, with age-appropriate content mapped to the UKCIS framework. This structured approach ensures pupils develop competence and confidence, with opportunities to consolidate learning through practical tasks and extracurricular coding sessions.

Oracy and Vocabulary

Our curriculum promotes oracy and vocabulary development through discussion, explanation, and reflection. Pupils learn and use key computing terminology such as algorithm, input, output, and abstraction. Lessons encourage pupils to articulate their thinking, describe processes, and evaluate outcomes using subject-specific language. Teachers model vocabulary and provide opportunities for pupils to engage in collaborative dialogue, peer teaching, and presentations. Online safety lessons also support oracy, with pupils discussing scenarios and making informed decisions. This focus on language enhances understanding and supports cross-curricular links, particularly with English, science, and PSHE.

Assessment of Pupils

Assessment is embedded throughout our computing curriculum, using both formative and summative approaches. Teachers assess pupils through observation, questioning, and practical outcomes during lessons. Each unit includes clear learning objectives and success criteria, allowing pupils to reflect on their progress. Summative assessment is supported by end-of-unit tasks and progression frameworks from Teach Computing. Online safety understanding is assessed through discussion, scenario responses, and pupil reflections using Project Evolve. Assessment is inclusive and focuses on effort, improvement, and understanding, ensuring all pupils are supported and challenged appropriately.

Reasonable Adjustments for Pupils with SEND

Our curriculum is designed to be inclusive, with reasonable adjustments made to support pupils with SEND. Lessons are adapted using differentiated tasks, simplified instructions, and accessible digital tools. Teachers use visual aids, scaffolded activities, and peer support to ensure all pupils can engage meaningfully. The Teach Computing scheme includes guidance for inclusive practice, and Project Evolve offers flexible content delivery for online safety. Pupils with SEND are encouraged to participate fully, with adjustments made to suit individual needs and strengths. This ensures every child can succeed and enjoy computing.

Respect