Computing: Creators, Not Just Consumers

 

At Kirkstall Valley, we prepare our children for a digital world that is evolving faster than ever. Our intention is simple: we want our children to be confident, creative, and critical creators of technology, rather than passive consumers.

We follow the Primary National Curriculum for Computing, which you can view here: Please find here the primary national curriculum for Computing

 

Our Curriculum: Purple Mash

 

To deliver a high-quality, progressive curriculum, we use the Purple Mash scheme of work. This award-winning platform provides a comprehensive suite of tools that allows children to code, create, design, and communicate.

Because Purple Mash is cloud-based, children become familiar with logging in and navigating a digital workspace—a vital skill for secondary school and beyond.

Our teaching is divided into three core strands:

1. Computer Science (Coding & Computational Thinking) This is the core of "how computers work."

  • Coding: Using tools like 2Code, children learn to write algorithms, debug programs, and create their own games and animations.

  • Progression: We move from simple commands in Key Stage 1 (making a character move) to complex variables, functions, and selection in Key Stage 2.

  • Computational Thinking: Children learn to break problems down (decomposition) and think logically.

2. Information Technology (Creativity & Content) This strand focuses on using computers to create, organize, and manipulate digital content.

  • Multimedia: Children use tools to create digital art, 3D models, music, and animations.

  • Data Handling: We teach children how to collect and analyse data using spreadsheets and databases (using tools like 2Investigate and 2Calculate).

  • Publishing: Children learn to present their ideas professionally using word processing and presentation software.

3. Digital Literacy & Online Safety This underpins everything we do. We want our children to be responsible, respectful, and active digital citizens.

  • Communication: Children learn how to send emails safely (using 2Email, a closed simulation) and how to blog responsibly.

  • Online Safety: We explicitly teach children about their digital footprint, privacy, and how to handle concerns online.

 

Online Safety

 

Online Safety is not just a "one-off" lesson; it is woven into the fabric of our computing curriculum.

  • Integrated: Every unit of work includes reminders about safe usage.

  • PSHE Links: Staff respond to current trends (such as social media or gaming concerns) through our PSHE curriculum and specific assemblies.

  • Safer Internet Day: We actively participate in the annual Safer Internet Day to raise awareness of emerging online issues.

A Dynamic Curriculum: AI & Critical Thinking

 

We recognise that the digital landscape changes rapidly. Our curriculum is not static; it is dynamic and responsive, adapting to include emerging technologies and trends that affect our children's lives.

  • Source Trusting & Critical Thinking: In an age of misinformation, we teach children not just to find information, but to question it. We move beyond simple searching to evaluating validity: Who wrote this? Why? Is the source trustworthy?

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): We are beginning to explore the role of AI in our world. We facilitate age-appropriate discussions about how AI works, the opportunities it offers, and the ethical importance of knowing when content has been generated by a human versus a machine.

 

Resources & Environment

 

We are fortunate to have a fully equipped Computing Suite alongside a set of portable devices (ChromeBooks). This allows us to teach specific keyboard and mouse skills on desktop computers—essential for typing fluency—while also utilising touchscreen technology for creative tasks in the classroom.

 

Beyond the Computing Lesson

 

Technology at Kirkstall Valley extends beyond the computing suite. We subscribe to a range of high-quality educational platforms that support learning across the curriculum and at home:

  • Maths: Maths Flex and Times Tables Rockstars (TTRS)

  • English: Spelling Shed and Nessy (for targeted intervention)

  • Home Learning: Google Classroom is used to set homework and facilitate remote learning when required.

Please see the Home Learning section of the website or speak to your child’s class teacher for login details.

 

Assessment

 

Assessment in computing is formative and ongoing.

  • Digital Portfolios: Children save their work into their own digital folders within Purple Mash.

  • Feedback: Teachers can review code, offer feedback, and check understanding directly within the platform.

  • Summative: We assess children at the end of units to ensure they have grasped the key concepts before moving to the next stage of complexity.

For more information about our computing curriculum, please speak to Mrs Ellis.  

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