Computing

We aim to develop pupils who are not only confident users of technology but also creative problem-solvers, logical thinkers and responsible digital citizens. Through carefully sequenced learning, children gain the skills required to understand how technology works, how it can be used effectively and how to stay safe when engaging with the digital worl

Our curriculum is designed to build both knowledge and practical skills progressively from Early Years through to Year 6.

Children develop an understanding of:

• Computer Science
• Information Technology
• Digital Literacy
• Online Safety
• Communication and Collaboration
• Data and Information
• Programming and Algorithms 

Learning is carefully sequenced so that pupils revisit and build upon key concepts over time, enabling them to develop increasingly sophisticated knowledge and apply learning confidently in new situations.

At Ribbon Academy, we want children to think like computer scientists.

Children learn how to:

• Break problems into manageable parts.
• Identify patterns and relationships.
• Design solutions.
• Create and debug algorithms.
• Write and refine programs.
• Apply logical reasoning.
• Evaluate and improve outcomes.

These skills help children become resilient, adaptable learners who can tackle complex challenges both within Computing and across the wider curriculum.

Technology is continually evolving, and children need more than technical skills to use it effectively.

Our curriculum supports pupils in becoming confident users of digital technologies by teaching them how to:

• Select appropriate digital tools.
• Create and present digital content.
• Communicate effectively online.
• Organise and manage information.
• Evaluate digital content critically.
• Understand how technology impacts society. 

Children develop practical experience using a wide range of hardware, software and digital platforms whilst understanding the purpose and limitations of each.

Programming provides opportunities for children to develop creativity, resilience and logical thinking.

As pupils progress through school, they learn how to:

• Design algorithms.
• Create and test programs.
• Use sequencing, selection and repetition.
• Debug errors systematically.
• Control outputs and respond to inputs.
• Develop increasingly complex solutions to problems. 

Through regular opportunities to code, children develop the confidence to create rather than simply consume technology.

Keeping children safe online is an essential part of our Computing curriculum.

Children are taught how to:

• Stay safe when using technology.
• Protect personal information.
• Recognise online risks.
• Report concerns appropriately.
• Communicate respectfully online.
• Understand digital footprints.
• Make informed choices when engaging with digital content. 

As technology continues to evolve, we also support children in developing an age-appropriate understanding of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), helping them become thoughtful, critical and responsible users of digital tools.

Computing supports learning across all areas of the curriculum.

Children regularly apply their digital skills through:

• Research and enquiry.
• Presentation and publishing.
• Multimedia creation.
• Data handling.
• Collaboration projects.
• Creative design opportunities.

This helps pupils understand that technology is a powerful tool for learning, communication and creativity.

Children begin to:

• Understand cause and effect.
• Use technology independently.
• Follow and create simple instructions.
• Develop early problem-solving skills.
• Explore technology safely.
• Communicate using digital tools.

These experiences establish the foundations for later Computing learning.

Our specialist Computing HLTA delivers Computing lessons across the school, ensuring pupils benefit from expert subject knowledge and consistent progression. Pupils have access to a wide range of technologies, including:

• Chromebooks
• Laptops
• Desktop Computers
• iPads
• Tablets
• Multimedia equipment 

These resources provide opportunities for pupils to develop practical experience whilst applying their learning in meaningful contexts.

• Understands how technology works.
• Thinks logically and creatively.
• Solves problems with confidence.
• Uses technology responsibly and safely.
• Communicates effectively in digital environments.
• Is prepared for an increasingly technological future.