Computing

At Robert Bakewell, we believe that computing equips children with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Our aim is for every child to become a confident user, creator and problem solver who can use technology safely, responsibly and creatively.

Our curriculum is based on the National Curriculum and is delivered through a carefully planned two-year rolling programme. We use the Raspberry Pi curriculum to support our teaching, providing a progressive sequence of learning across five key strands:

• Programming

• Systems and Networks

• Creating Media

• Data and Information

• Online Safety

Through practical, engaging lessons, children develop computational thinking, learn how digital systems work and create their own digital content. Programming is taught using Scratch, where pupils learn to design, test and debug algorithms while developing resilience and logical thinking. Children also use a range of digital tools, including online music platforms, to create and edit their own work across the curriculum.

Online Safety and Digital Citizenship

Online safety is a central part of our computing curriculum and reflects the changing digital world our children are growing up in. Alongside learning how to stay safe online, protect personal information and communicate respectfully, pupils explore current issues such as social media, artificial intelligence (AI), misinformation and the risks associated with emerging technologies. We place additional emphasis on online safety in Years 5 and 6 to prepare children for the increased independence they will experience as they move to secondary school.

Preparing for the Future

We want children to understand that computing opens the door to a wide range of future opportunities. Throughout the curriculum, pupils learn about careers in technology, including programming, graphic design, game development, cyber security and other digital industries, helping them appreciate how computing skills can be applied in the workplace and everyday life.

Supporting Every Learner

Lessons are carefully sequenced and adapted to meet the needs of all learners. Small learning steps, practical activities, visual scaffolds and targeted support ensure every child, including those with SEND, can access the curriculum and achieve success.

Computing in the Early Years

In EYFS, children begin to develop an understanding of technology through play and exploration. They use devices in meaningful contexts, learn that technology is part of everyday life and begin to understand how to use it safely. Our focus in the Early Years is on developing the communication, creativity and problem-solving skills that provide strong foundations for future computing learning.

Our aim is for every child to leave Robert Bakewell as a confident, responsible and digitally literate citizen, ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges of an ever-evolving technological world.