"Computing is really fun. I love how we've made sturdy buildings to withstand earthquakes.' - Year 4 pupil
We believe that it is critically important, in the modern day, to empower children to make safe and effective use of technology. Ordinary users of technology have, at their fingertips, an immense and fantastic power that is only just being realised. Our children will experience, through our curriculum, opportunities that will start to build their understanding of what is possible in this rapidly changing area, empowering them as learners and citizens in our world.
At St David’s School we aim to inspire children to develop a positive and enthusiastic attitude towards using and applying their computing skills and knowledge. Children will get opportunities to work with different technologies to solve a range of problems. From creating algorithms for 2D animations to creating real world physical systems we will guide the children and aim to open their eyes to the ever widening range of applications for computing. We will also aim to explore jobs that real people do - outside speakers will be brought in or accessed remotely to help build the sense of wonder and awe of what can be achieved in computing. Where possible we will partner with the RAF and other supporting organisations to make real life links to the benefits of computing.
Success in computing will support success in wider life. Our children will be confident and capable users of technology. Whether to find information, access learning, to develop or create things or simply for pleasure they will be able to make maximum use of the technology to enhance their lives. They will be aware of the various risks that technology brings and will know how to protect themselves and others around them.
At St David’s, our Computing curriculum is carefully designed to bring to life the intent of building confident, safe and curious users of technology. Recognising the immense power that technology places at our fingertips, we ensure that all pupils gain not only the technical skills to participate but the critical understanding to engage thoughtfully with the digital world.
The curriculum is organised into a two-year rolling programme to meet the needs of our mixed-age classes. Through this, we ensure that pupils receive a balanced and comprehensive experience in digital literacy, information technology, and computer science, underpinned at every stage by a strong and age-appropriate focus on e-safety.
In Key Stage 1, pupils begin by exploring what technology is and how it is used in everyday life. They learn to navigate and use basic programs with increasing independence. From early experiences in coding and animation to understanding the basics of digital citizenship, children develop foundational competencies that will serve them well across the curriculum and in life. Regular e-safety sessions equip them with the language and strategies to use technology responsibly and respectfully.
In Lower Key Stage 2, pupils deepen their understanding through more complex challenges—creating databases, publishing digital content, and building programmable devices such as earthquake simulators. We make deliberate cross-curricular links, drawing on real-life applications, for example through our integration of robotics and simulations into geography and science themes.
By Upper Key Stage 2, our pupils are applying their computing knowledge to real-world scenarios. They design and build systems using Lego Spark kits and Micro:bits to solve purposeful problems such as energy conservation, plant care, and communication in emergencies. They gain awareness of computing languages through Scratch and other platforms, and their understanding of networks and systems is expanded through high-level collaborative projects. Digital creativity is also nurtured through podcasting, CAD design and 3D printing, video editing, and music production.
Throughout, we enrich learning through industry links. Where possible, we draw upon support from the RAF, local STEM ambassadors, and the wider digital community to introduce children to the roles of computing in modern employment. These encounters foster awe and ambition, showing our pupils the potential paths their skills could open.
All staff are supported with clear progression guidance and high-quality resources, including Teach Computing and Purple Mash. Assessment is formative and ongoing, focusing on how well pupils can apply their learning to novel and meaningful contexts.
Above all, our implementation reflects our belief that Computing is not simply a subject but a vital life skill. At each stage, children are encouraged to explore, experiment, and evaluate as they grow into safe, skilled and empowered citizens of the digital world.