We follow the National Centre for Computing Education (NCCE) curriculum, which is funded by the Department for Education and delivered by STEM Learning. The NCCE framework is underpinned by 12 principles of effective computing pedagogy:
NCCE_12 pedagogy_principles.pdfThe statutory elements of the National Curriculum drive what our pupils learn. In a rapidly evolving digital world—where many future technologies have yet to be invented—we aim to equip children with the confidence, resilience and adaptability needed to thrive. Pupils learn to understand the possibilities and capabilities of technology, as well as how to use it effectively and responsibly.
A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has strong links with mathematics, science and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems.
The core of computing is computer science, where pupils learn the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to apply this knowledge through programming. Building on this, pupils use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate—able to use and express themselves through technology at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.
The National Curriculum for computing aims to ensure that all pupils:
Understand and apply the fundamental principles of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation
Analyse problems in computational terms and gain practical experience of writing programs to solve them
Evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, to solve problems
Become responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology
We follow the NCCE curriculum, teaching six units across the academic year, each consisting of approximately six lessons. These units are adapted to suit the needs of our learners, with cross-curricular links made where appropriate.
Computer science is at the heart of our curriculum, providing the foundational knowledge needed to understand other areas of computing. Two of the six units each year focus specifically on computer science. Through these, pupils learn about algorithms, programming and debugging, and develop logical reasoning skills to predict and explain the behaviour of programs.
We use the PRIMM approach (Predict, Run, Investigate, Modify, Make) to support structured programming learning. Pupils apply computational thinking to solve problems and develop their understanding progressively from Year R through to Year 6, preparing them for a confident transition to secondary education.
Lessons are carefully designed to be inclusive and accessible for all learners. Skills are practised regularly, and each lesson builds on prior learning, allowing pupils to revisit and consolidate their understanding while reducing cognitive overload.
Assessment takes place at the end of each unit and informs future teaching. Where needed, scaffolding is provided through worked examples, which are gradually reduced as pupils gain confidence and independence.
A range of teaching strategies are used, including practical “unplugged” activities to demonstrate key concepts without devices. Complex problems are broken down into manageable steps using sub-goals to support learning.
Online safety is taught explicitly using the Project Evolve programme, based on the UK Council for Internet Safety (UKCIS) framework, Education for a Connected World.
This progressive scheme helps pupils understand how to stay safe online, communicate appropriately and behave responsibly in digital environments. Key messages are reinforced through our “High Five SMART” aide-mémoire, supporting children to become safe, respectful and informed digital citizens.
High Five.pdfNCCE's Journey Plan
Long Term Computing Plan
Computing 39 week plan 2025-26.pdfE-Safety
We mainly use Project Evolve to deliver e-safety lessons. ProjectEVOLVE contains resources for each of the 330 statements from UK Council for Internet Safety's (UKCIS) framework “Education for a Connected World” designed by SWGfL and UK Safer Internet Centre. Content is personalised according to the class.
