Computing

At St. Mary’s Hare Park Primary School and Nursery we strive to give all our pupils opportunities to gain knowledge and develop skills that will equip them for our ever-changing digital world.  

The curriculum focuses on developing skills in digital literacy, computer science, information technology and online safety to ensure our pupils become competent in understanding and safely using technology. Computing is taught in dedicated lessons (from Nursery through to Year 6) and skills acquired are consolidated in cross curricular opportunities in class. 

Early Years

Computing is incorporated into everyday learning in Pre-Prep. We believe that teaching Computing skills to Early Years’ pupils supports the development of computational thinking and provides a strong foundation of knowledge when our pupils continue their journey into Lower Prep. Pupils access technology using a range of resources including iPads, floor robots and the class interactive whiteboard.   

Lower Prep and Upper Prep: the curriculum is divided into 3 inter-related strands:  Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy, which includes the very important topic of Online Safety.   

Computer Science is the study of computers and algorithmic processes, including their principles, hardware and software designs, their applications, and impact on society. This strand of the curriculum links closely to the control element of the former ICT curriculum.   

Computing Curriculum Overview.pdf

Information Technology covers the use of computers for functional purposes, such as collecting and presenting information and using search technology. Appropriate activities include word processing, creating images, taking and using photographs and video, creating music and animations, using and creating databases. As well as creation of digital materials, pupils have experience of manipulating and editing their own work and resources from elsewhere.  

Digital literacy covers the safe and responsible use of technology, including recognising its advantages for collaboration or communication. It is paramount that our pupils understand the main risks relating to: Content (being exposed to illegal, inappropriate or harmful material); Contact (being subjected to harmful online interaction with other users) and Conduct (online behaviour that increases the likelihood of, or causes, harm) and how to respond to any concerns.  

Computing_Policy_autumn_2022.pdf