Computing
Computers are part of everyday life. For most of us, technology is essential to our lives, at home and at work. 'Computational thinking' is a skill children must be taught if they are to be ready for the workplace and able to participate effectively in this digital world.
The national curriculum for computing has been developed to equip our young people with the foundational skills, knowledge and understanding of computing they will need for the rest of their lives.
Through the programme of study for computing at Bolton St Catherine's Academy, they will learn how computers and computer systems work, they will design and build programs, develop their ideas using technology and create a range of content.
Key Stage 1 |
Key Stage 2 |
|
CS |
Understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs execute
Use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs |
Design, write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals, including controlling or simulating physical systems; solve problems Use sequence, selection, and repetition in programs; work with variables and various forms of input and output Use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and to detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs Understand computer networks including the internet; how they can provide multiple services, such as the World Wide Web Appreciate how [search] results are selected and ranked |
IT |
Use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content |
Use search technologies effectively Select, use and combine a variety of software (including internet services) on a range of digital devices to design and create a range of programs, systems and content that accomplish given goals, including collecting, analysing, evaluating and presenting data and information |
DL |
Recognise common uses of information technology beyond school Use technology safely and respectfully, keeping personal information private; |
Understand the opportunities [networks] offer for communication and collaboration Be discerning in evaluating digital content Use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly; recognise |
It should be noted that the statutory requirements are not labelled under these three headings in the programme of study, and the distinction between information technology and digital literacy is open to some interpretation. The important thing is that we cover the content in a balanced, stimulating and creative way rather than being overly concerned about the specifics of terminology.
Yearly Overview
Autumn 1 | Autumn 2 | Spring 1 | Spring 2 | Summer 1 | Summer 2 | |
Year 1 | Computer Skills DL / IT |
Word Processing IT |
Painting IT |
Programming Toys CS / IT |
Programming with Scratch Jr CS Using and Applying IT |
Online Safety DL |
Year 2 | Preparing For Turtle Logo CS |
Programming Turtle Logo and Scratch CS |
Computer Art DL |
Using the Internet DL / IT |
Presentation Skills DL / IT Using and Applying IT / CS |
Online Safety DL |
Year 3 | Presentation Skills IT |
Word Processing Skills DL / IT |
Drawing and Desktop Publishing IT / DL |
Internet Research and Communication IT / DL / CS |
Programming Turtle Logo and Scratch CS Using and Applying IT |
Online Safety IT |
Year 4 | Scratch Questions and Quizzes CS |
Word Processing IT |
Programming Turtle Logo CS |
Animation IT |
0 | Online Safety DL / IT |
Year 5 | Scratch: Developing Games CS |
Flowol CS |
Radio Station IT |
Internet Research and Web Design IT |
3D Modelling: Sketch Up IT Using and Applying CS / IT |
Online safety IT / DL |
Year 6 | Scratch: Animated stories CS |
Spreadsheets IT |
Kodu Programming / BBC Microbit (new 2025) IT / CS |
Online Safety & Using and Applying (1 lesson) |
Using and Applying Project – Game Product IT / CS |
Film-Making IT / CS |