Computing

Curriculum Planning

Our Computing curriculum is carefully planned to ensure progressive skill development and knowledge acquisition across all year groups. Leaders have designed a coherent sequence of learning that builds on prior knowledge and integrates practical and theoretical aspects of computing.

Key planning features include:

• A clear progression of core computing skills such as coding, computational thinking, digital literacy, and online safety.
• Inclusion of varied technology tools—iPads, laptops, control devices, coding kits, and 3D printers—to provide hands-on and engaging learning experiences.
• Opportunities for pupils to apply their computing skills in cross-curricular projects, enhancing relevance and deepening understanding.
• Thoughtful sequencing that ensures pupils revisit and consolidate key concepts and skills over time.
• Alignment with the school’s HEART values, promoting honesty in digital behaviour, respect for data and privacy, accountability in online actions, and trust in collaborative digital work.

Teaching Approach

Teaching in Computing at Chiseldon is practical, inclusive, and focused on developing both skills and understanding. Teachers employ:

• Step-by-step modelling and guided practice to build confidence and competence in using digital tools and programming languages.
• Use of project-based learning and real-world challenges to encourage creativity and problem-solving.
• Explicit teaching of online safety and responsible digital citizenship to prepare pupils for safe and ethical technology use.
• Differentiated tasks and support to ensure all pupils, including those with SEND, can access and thrive in computing lessons.
• Opportunities for pupils to reflect on their learning and evaluate their digital creations critically.

Interactive Learning & Engagement

We believe that active engagement with technology is key to developing computing skills and enthusiasm. Our lessons include:

• Hands-on coding activities using a range of programming platforms suitable for different ages and abilities.
• Use of control devices and robotics to develop understanding of algorithms and sequencing.
• Creative projects involving digital media, animation, and 3D printing to foster innovation and design skills.
• Collaborative tasks that build communication, teamwork, and project management skills in digital contexts.
• Integration of technology across the curriculum to reinforce computing skills in meaningful ways.

Fostering Digital Literacy & Computational Thinking

Computing at Chiseldon supports pupils to become confident, ethical, and innovative users of technology. We:

• Promote the school’s HEART values through computing, encouraging honesty in digital creation, respect for intellectual property, and accountability in online behaviour.
• Encourage pupils to develop resilience and logical thinking through debugging and iterative problem-solving.
• Support pupils in understanding the impact of technology on society and the environment, fostering responsible digital citizenship.
• Celebrate creativity and diversity in digital work, helping pupils appreciate different approaches and solutions.

Assessment

Assessment in Computing is ongoing and multifaceted, focusing on skill mastery, creativity, and understanding. Our approach includes:

• Formative assessment through observation, pupil self-assessment, and peer feedback during practical activities.
• Use of digital portfolios and project logs to document progression in coding, digital creation, and problem-solving skills.
• Summative assessment aligned with curriculum objectives to ensure pupils meet expected standards in computing knowledge and skills.
• Opportunities for pupils to explain their computational thinking and evaluate their digital work, fostering metacognitive skills.

This assessment framework supports personalised learning and helps pupils develop as confident, capable digital learners.