“Technology will not replace great teachers, but technology in the hands of great teachers can be transformational.” — George Couros
At Abingdon, we want every child to become a confident, capable and responsible user and creator of technology.
Computing is not simply about learning to use devices. It is about understanding how technology works, how it can be used creatively and purposefully, and how to navigate an increasingly digital world safely and responsibly.
Our Computing curriculum is ambitious, inclusive and carefully sequenced from Reception to Year 6. It develops the knowledge, vocabulary and practical skills children need to participate fully in a digital society, while using technology to enhance learning across the wider curriculum.
Understanding technology
We use the Purple Mash to provide a coherent progression of knowledge and skills. Teachers adapt and enrich this to meet the needs of their pupils and ensure that learning is purposeful.
Children develop understanding across the key areas of:
- Computer science – understanding algorithms, programming, computational thinking and how digital systems work.
- Information technology – selecting and using technology to create, organise, communicate and present information.
- Digital literacy – developing the knowledge and judgement to use technology safely, responsibly and effectively.
Children learn not only how to use technology, but how to think computationally, solve problems, create digital content and make informed decisions about the technology they encounter.
Technology as a tool for inclusion
Technology can remove barriers to learning and widen access to the curriculum.
At Abingdon, we use technology purposefully to support children with different needs, experiences and starting points. It can provide alternative ways to communicate, access information, demonstrate understanding, collaborate and engage with learning.
For children with SEND, children new to English and those who require additional support, technology can be an important tool for increasing independence and participation.
However, technology is not used as a substitute for high-quality teaching. The teacher remains at the centre. Technology is selected because it strengthens learning, removes a barrier or creates an opportunity that would otherwise be difficult to provide.
The ambition remains high; the route to achieving it may be different.
Digital life and digital citizenship
Children’s digital lives extend well beyond the school day. Our responsibility therefore goes beyond teaching children how to operate a device.
Through Computing, alongside RSHE, PSHE and our wider safeguarding curriculum, children develop the knowledge and confidence to make safe and responsible choices online.
They learn about:
- online safety and appropriate behaviour;
- privacy and personal information;
- passwords and security;
- communicating respectfully online;
- cyberbullying and harmful content;
- reliability and accuracy of information;
- digital footprints and online reputation;
- appropriate use of images and information;
- reporting concerns and knowing when to seek help; and
- the responsibilities that come with being part of an online community.
Children learn that the same values apply online as they do in the physical world: respect, responsibility, kindness and good judgement matter everywhere.
Computing and the wider curriculum
Technology is a powerful tool for learning across the school.
Children use digital tools to research, communicate, create, present, investigate and collaborate across subjects. Technology can provide access to rich content, enable children to explore concepts in different ways and give them authentic audiences for their work.
We are deliberate about this. Technology is not used simply because it is available; it is used when it improves learning, increases participation or gives children a meaningful way to apply what they know.
This helps children develop the digital confidence they will need throughout their education, future employment and everyday lives.
Computing and the ARCH
Computing provides rich opportunities to live our Abingdon ARCH:
- Aspirations – developing the confidence to explore technology, create, innovate and imagine possibilities.
- Resilience – debugging, problem-solving and persevering when something does not work as expected.
- Harmony – communicating respectfully, collaborating effectively and contributing positively to digital communities.
- Commitment – developing the care, responsibility and attention needed to use technology safely and create high-quality digital work.
Computing also contributes directly to Abingdon Armour for Life. Children develop practical skills they will use throughout th
Computing Progression Document
Please fine the link to the Computing programme of study https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/239033/PRIMARY_national_curriculum_-_Computing.pdf
