Computing (including Online Safety)

Computing at Ickworth Park Primary School

At Ickworth Park Primary School, our computing curriculum is designed to be ambitious, engaging and accessible for all pupils, building progressively on knowledge and skills from the Early Years to Year 6.

Our Intent

At Ickworth Park Primary School, our Computing curriculum is designed to:

Develop pupils’ ability to think computationally, solve problems and understand how digital systems work
Build knowledge of key concepts including algorithms, programming, data, digital systems and online safety
Foster curiosity, creativity and resilience when using technology to create and investigate

We aim for all pupils to:

Become confident, responsible and safe users of technology
Apply their computing skills across the curriculum and in real-life contexts
Develop independence and perseverance when debugging and solving problems

Our Approach

We use Purple Mash as a foundation for our curriculum, ensuring clear progression in knowledge and skills.

Teachers adapt the curriculum to ensure it is ambitious, inclusive, and responsive to the needs, interests, and context of pupils at Ickworth Park. This enables pupils to build secure, substantive knowledge and develop a deep understanding of key computing concepts. Pupils are able to confidently articulate what they have learned, how their knowledge has developed over time, and why it is important within both academic and real-world contexts.

Learning focuses on:

Computer Science – developing understanding of algorithms, programming, and how digital systems work
Information Technology – using technology to create, organise and present digital content
Digital Literacy – learning to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully

Progression

Learning in computing begins in the Early Years, where children:

Explore technology through play, using devices such as tablets, cameras and interactive toys, beginning to understand that technology has a purpose and can be used to create and communicate. During the summer term, pupils begin learning how to sign in to the chrome books ready for year 1.

As pupils move through the school:

In Key Stage 1, pupils begin to understand what algorithms are, create simple programs, and use technology purposefully to create and organise digital content, while learning how to stay safe online.
In Key Stage 2, pupils build on these skills by designing, writing and debugging programs, using logical reasoning to solve problems, and applying technology creatively and safely across a range of contexts.

By Year 6, pupils are able to:

Design and create programs independently to solve problems
Use a range of digital tools confidently and creatively
Understand how digital systems work, including networks and the internet
Demonstrate safe, responsible and respectful use of technology as confident digital citizens

Inclusion

All pupils are supported to access the computing curriculum.

Scaffolding and adapted resources such as step-by-step instructions, visual prompts, and partially completed programs or templates to support learning and build independence.
Clear modelling and vocabulary through explicit teacher demonstration, repetition of key concepts, and the use of visual aids and supported vocabulary to ensure understanding for all learners.
Practical and engaging experiences including unplugged activities, hands-on tasks and the use of a range of devices to make abstract concepts more accessible and inclusive for all pupils.

We ensure all pupils can participate fully alongside their peers, fostering confidence, independence and a sense of achievement in computing.

What Makes Computing Special at Ickworth Park

At Ickworth Park, we enhance our computing curriculum through:

Use of our local area – pupils use the outdoor environment to apply computing skills in meaning contexts. This includes collecting and analysing data using data loggers, capturing digital photographs, and exploring real-world applications of technology.
Opportunities for real-life experiences and enrichment – pupils engage in a range of hands-on activities, including computing clubs, robotics workshops, and cross-curricular STEM projects, which brings computing to life beyond the classroom
A focus on pupils becoming responsible, informed members of society – we place significant emphasis on online safety and digital citizenship, ensuring that pupils develop the knowledge and skills needed to use technology safely, ethically and responsibly in an increasingly digital world.

Examples include:

Participation in British Science Week at Adastral Park, where pupils explore technologies such as micro: bits, Crumble kits, and Edison robots.
Strong links with Abbeygate Sixth Form and Eastern Education Group through our Digital Link Lead role, providing access to computing events and specialist equipment.
Online Safety workshops delivered by the local police and Cyber Security Advisors for each class during Safer Internet Day.
Practical use of data loggers and micro: bits within the school grounds and woodland areas to collect and analyse environmental data.
Enrichment opportunities such as computing clubs, STEM days or robotics workshops to deepen pupils’ understanding of programming and problem-solving.
Achieving the National Computing Quality Mark, recognising the excellence of computing offered.

At Ickworth Park, our pupils experience meaningful, real-world applications of computing, which helps them to develop confidence, creativity and a strong sense of responsibility as active participants in a digital world.

Impact

Pupils develop:

Develop confidence, enthusiasm and strong engagement in computing, becoming independent and collaborative users of technology
Gain secure knowledge and skills to use a range of digital platforms safely, respectfully and effectively
Build key life skills, including problem-solving, logical thinking and communication, preparing them for future learning and careers

They leave Ickworth Park as capable, confident and responsible digital citizens, equipped with the skills and knowledge to succeed in an ever-changing technological world.