Computing

Computing at Oakwood

Computing Intent

“Equipping every child with the skills and values to thrive in a digital world.”

At Oakwood Primary, our vision for Computing is to ensure that every child becomes an independent, creative, safe, respectful, and problem-solving digital citizen. Through our carefully planned curriculum, pupils develop a broad and transferable set of computing skills that will support them both in school and in the wider world. We want children to enjoy computing, to see the exciting opportunities it offers, and to gain the confidence to use technology in purposeful and innovative ways.

We follow the iLearn2 scheme, which provides a structured and engaging progression of skills from Year R through to Year 6. The curriculum is built around the three core aspects of Computing:

• Computer Science – learning to program and develop computational thinking through block-based and text-based languages such as Scratch, HTML, and Python. Pupils apply these skills to create games, animations, and interactive projects.

• Information Technology – developing the ability to use digital tools to create, edit, and present content such as documents, digital art, animations, websites, music, and video. These skills build year on year, preparing pupils for the digital world beyond primary school.

• Digital Literacy – understanding how to use technology responsibly and effectively, including researching online, evaluating information, communicating safely, and learning how networks and the internet function.

The curriculum is carefully sequenced so that pupils revisit and build upon prior knowledge each year. For example, children may begin by creating a simple eBook in Year 2, then expand these skills with hyperlinks and interactive elements in Years 4 and 5. Similarly, programming starts with simple sprite movements in Year 3 and develops into more complex games involving variables, conditions, and randomness by Year 5 and 6.

In addition to iLearn2, we place a strong emphasis on Digital Citizenship. To support this, we use resources from Common Sense Media, a widely respected provider of age-appropriate materials that teach pupils how to be safe, kind, and responsible online. These lessons help children understand issues such as online privacy, cyberbullying, screen time balance, digital footprints, and respectful online communication. By embedding these resources into our teaching, we ensure that pupils not only learn technical skills but also develop the values and awareness they need to navigate the online world with confidence and care.

Through this approach, Oakwood pupils leave primary school well-prepared for the next stage of their education, with both the practical computing skills and the digital citizenship values needed to thrive in a connected world.

YEAR 3

YEAR 4