Intent – What are we trying to achieve?

At St Mary’s, our Computing curriculum aims to equip pupils with the knowledge, skills, and understanding they need to thrive in an ever-changing digital world. Through engaging, practical experiences, pupils develop computational thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills that prepare them for life in a technologically rich society.

We want all children to:

• Understand how digital systems work and how they can be used purposefully.

• Develop programming and logical reasoning skills through exploration and experimentation.

• Use technology confidently, respectfully, and safely.

• Become digitally literate, able to express themselves and develop their ideas through technology as active participants in a digital world.

Our curriculum fosters curiosity, independence, and resilience, encouraging pupils to see themselves as digital creators and responsible citizens who can use technology to make a positive impact.

Implementation – How do we translate our vision into practice?

We deliver the Computing curriculum through the Twinkl Digital Sparks programme, which comprehensively covers all National Curriculum objectives for Key Stages 1 and 2. This structured, progressive scheme ensures that knowledge and skills are developed systematically from early computing concepts in KS1 to more advanced problem-solving and digital application in KS2.

To further enrich our provision, we supplement Digital Sparks with resources from the STEM Learning Teach Computing Curriculum, which provides expert-developed materials to enhance lesson quality and deepen understanding.

Digital Sparks lessons cover the three key strands of the Computing curriculum:

• Computer Science – understanding algorithms, programming, and how digital systems work.

• Information Technology – using software and digital tools to create, organise, and present content.

• Digital Literacy – promoting safe, respectful, and responsible use of technology, including online safety and digital wellbeing.

Online safety is embedded throughout all units, with dedicated teaching, reminders, and practical activities to help pupils develop confidence in navigating the digital world. Each unit also includes a Digital Discoveries magazine, providing interactive challenges and real-world links to inspire curiosity and connect learning to future digital opportunities.

KS1 pupils begin by exploring what computers are, how they work, and how to use them safely. In KS2, pupils build on this foundation by writing and debugging programs, understanding networks and the internet, evaluating digital content, and developing critical thinking as digital citizens.

Impact – What is the impact of our curriculum on the children?

By the end of their time at St Mary’s, pupils will:

• Have a secure understanding of computer science and digital literacy concepts.

• Be able to design, write, and debug simple programs, using logical reasoning to predict and explain outcomes.

• Use technology creatively and purposefully to produce, organise, and share content.

• Understand how to use technology safely, respectfully, and responsibly.

• Recognise the importance of technology in the wider world and its influence on their lives and future opportunities.

We measure the impact of our Computing curriculum through observation, pupil voice, work samples, and ongoing assessment. Children demonstrate enthusiasm, confidence, and growing independence in their use of technology. The clear progression within the Twinkl Digital Sparks curriculum ensures that every child leaves St Mary’s as a capable, confident, and responsible digital learner—ready for the challenges of the modern world.