Computing Curriculum

Computing Vision

Our vision at Gunter Primary School is to provide a safe, inclusive environment which supports all pupils to develop their computational thinking and creativity to develop a broad, rich understanding of technology and its’ use in a diversely connected world.  A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computation thinking and creativity to understand and contribute to the world around them.  Our curriculum aim is to provide a wealth of opportunities for the development of knowledge, skills and understanding to enable children to develop high aspirations and fulfil their personal aims within the subject area of computing as well as across all other areas of the curriculum through a cross-curricular approach that is broad and balanced. 

Computing Aims

Gunter Primary School’s syllabus for teaching computing is underpinned by the National Curriculum with the aims of:

• Understanding and applying the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science;
• Analysing problems in computational terms;
• Evaluating and applying use of information technology;
• Being responsible, competent and creative users of information technology.

Computing Syllabus

We use a programme of study throughout Key Stage 1 and 2 called Teach Computing Curriculum.  It is based on the latest pedagogical research and endorsed by the National Computing Centre for Excellence (NCCE).  Our aspirational programme of study strives to develop each child’s depth and breadth of learning within the three key strands of computer science, information technology and digital literacy.  Furthermore, children will have opportunities to apply their knowledge, understanding and skills through a variety of cross-curricular projects including science, mathematics, art, music and design technology. 

Online Safety

Keeping children safe in education and online safety is paramount at Gunter Primary School.  Our computing syllabus provides opportunities for children to learn how to balance the benefits offered by technology with an awareness of the risks from their own and others’ online behaviour.  Children are able to develop effective strategies for staying safe and making a positive contribution online as part of our online safety offering, which includes Teach Computing Curriculum, PSHE (SCARF Curriculum), Safer Internet Day and visits from local Police Community Support Officers (PCSO). 

How Computing is Taught Across our School

At Gunter, our computing curriculum has been arranged into five main threads of learning:

• Programming and algorithms;
• Digital audio and visual media creation and manipulation;
• Knowledge and understanding of computer systems and networks;
• Data and information systems;
• Digital literacy and e-safety.

Computing is taught discretely within a spiral curriculum and where possible links are made with our creative, science and maths curriculum to further enhance learning opportunities for children.

Note:  Order of units for each year group may be subject to change.