At Langdale CE Primary School, our computing curriculum is designed to equip children with the digital skills and knowledge they need to navigate and contribute to an increasingly digital world. Through the three key strands—Digital Literacy, Information Technology, and Computer Science—we aim to develop confident, responsible users of technology who can think critically, solve problems, and express themselves creatively. Computing supports our curriculum intent by encouraging innovation, collaboration, and resilience, while enabling pupils to connect with real-world contexts and future possibilities.

Computing is implemented through a carefully planned, progressive curriculum from Year 1 to Year 6. In Digital Literacy, children learn how to stay safe online, manage their digital footprint, and understand how data is gathered and used. In Information Technology, pupils develop fluency in using a range of digital tools to create purposeful content, whether presentations, animations, or digital art, often linked with learning in other subjects. Through Computer Science, learners are introduced to coding concepts such as algorithms, sequencing, loops, selection and debugging. These are explored through both screen-based tools and unplugged, hands-on activities that build logical thinking and perseverance. An exceptional part of our approach is Learning Beyond the Classroom, where we give pupils opportunities to apply computing skills in real, meaningful contexts. For example, children use programming and coding to monitor soil moisture levels in our school polytunnel, applying their understanding of sensors and data logging to a live environment. This integration of computing with environmental learning brings digital skills to life, deepens understanding, and fosters problem-solving in authentic settings.

The impact of this approach is that children leave Langdale as confident digital citizens, equipped not only with technical skills but also with the curiosity and critical thinking needed for the future. They are resilient, adaptable learners who understand how technology can be used creatively and responsibly to shape and improve the world around them.

The three strands of Computing at Langdale:

Pupils learn about E-Safety as part of Digital Literacy; understanding how information is gathered and stored in the modern world; and how they can keep themselves and their data safe. Developing skills to access digital media across a range of devices and storage locations allows pupils to understand and interact with the digital world at an age-appropriate level.

Information Technology teaches us how to develop skills to connect with others across a range of technologies and software platforms. Using touch-screens as well as mice and keyboards develops fine motor skills, while selecting appropriate media allows us to create content such as text, presentations, artwork and film, to share our creativity with others. The constantly evolving technological landscape needs us to develop a love of learning and a willingness to try new things.

Through Computer Science, pupils are encouraged to explore by “tinkering”; as encountering errors promotes “debugging” to find solutions, often by applying logic. When students enjoy themselves and find activities fun and satisfying, they become more immersed in the topic which leads to deeper learning. We introduce key computer science themes of sequence, selection, decomposition and abstraction at an appropriate level from Years 1 through to 6. Age-appropriate, interactive resources are used alongside “unplugged” activities (away from screens) where concepts are reinforced. Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) is used whenever possible to cement essential skills such as: problem solving, perseverance, logic, collaboration and evaluation. These are transferrable skills which help build resilience and confidence across the curriculum, but also contribute towards the development of Computational Thinking.