Computing

“The power of computing lies not in the technology itself, but in the minds of those who use it”

Intent: To enable individuals to use computational thinking to understand and change the world, becoming digitally literate, creative, and confident problem-solvers.

At Moss Hey, we aim to equip children with the essential life skills needed to use technology confidently, creatively and safely in an increasingly digital world. We strive to ensure that pupils understand how to use technology in a socially responsible and secure manner and develop an awareness of the wide range of future career opportunities available through studying computing. Our goal is to prepare children to thrive in the modern workplace as capable, informed and adaptable digital citizens.

Through our computing curriculum, pupils become independent, autonomous users of technology who take enjoyment and pride in their achievements. We provide a broad and balanced curriculum that develops responsible, competent and creative users of information and communication technology, enabling children to become active participants and innovative problem-solvers within a digital society.

Our curriculum is structured around the NCCE’s spiral approach, where key themes are revisited and built upon each year to ensure systematic and coherent progression across the school. The scheme, designed by computing specialists and grounded in current pedagogical research, uses an innovative progression model in which content—concepts, knowledge, skills and objectives—is organised into interconnected “learning graphs.” This structure supports pupils in developing the deep, transferable understanding they need to succeed both now and in the future. The curriculum encompasses three strands—computer science, information technology and digital literacy—with clearly defined aims that reflect this distinction.

Aims for Developing Learners

Curious Learners
We nurture curiosity by encouraging pupils to explore how technology works through hands-on coding activities, digital investigations and open-ended challenges. Children are supported to ask questions, explore possibilities and express creativity through meaningful use of technology. “Unplugged” activities deepen pupils’ conceptual understanding of computational thinking before applying it in digital contexts.

Resilient Learners
Computing naturally involves problem-solving and debugging, helping pupils develop perseverance when faced with challenges. We promote a safe and supportive environment where trial and error is encouraged, enabling children to learn from mistakes, refine their thinking and develop a ‘can-do’ attitude. All pupils are supported to feel confident that they can succeed in computing.

Ambitious Learners
By progressively building knowledge within the strands of computer science, information technology and digital literacy, we raise pupils’ aspirations and prepare them for lifelong learning and future employment. Children are empowered to become creators of technology rather than just consumers, developing skills and understanding that will serve them well into adulthood.

Meeting National Curriculum Expectations

Our curriculum, following the NCCE’s spiral model, ensures continuity and progression across year groups. We fully meet the expectations of the National Curriculum through the following core areas:

Computer Science
Pupils learn and apply the fundamental principles of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation. They gain repeated practical experience in writing programs to solve problems, using concepts such as sequence, selection and repetition.

Information Technology
Children develop the ability to evaluate and apply a range of software and digital tools to collect, analyse and present data effectively. They use technology purposefully to create, organise and manipulate digital content.

Digital Literacy
Pupils learn to use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly. They recognise acceptable and unacceptable behaviour, understand how to protect themselves online and know how to report concerns. Online safety is embedded throughout the curriculum using high-quality resources, including those from National Online Safety.