Our Vision:

At Heathrow Primary School, we recognise that computing is a fundamental life skill and an essential part of preparing pupils for the future. Our vision is to develop confident, creative and responsible digital citizens who can thrive in an ever-changing technological world.

We are committed to providing a rich and engaging computing curriculum that fosters curiosity, resilience and independence. We encourage pupils to explore new technologies, think critically and develop a strong sense of responsibility when using digital tools.

Intent:

In line with the National Curriculum for Computing, our intent is to deliver a broad, balanced and ambitious curriculum that enables all pupils to:

• Understand and apply the fundamental principles of computer science, including logic, algorithms and programming
• Analyse problems in computational terms and design, write and debug programs
• Evaluate and apply information technology to create purposeful digital content
• Become responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology

Our curriculum is underpinned by the Kapow Computing scheme, which provides a carefully sequenced, knowledge-rich progression from EYFS to Year 6. This ensures that all pupils build on prior learning and develop both substantive knowledge and disciplinary skills over time.

Online safety is a central priority and is embedded throughout our curriculum. We aim to develop pupils’ understanding of how to stay safe online, think critically about digital content and behave responsibly in all online environments.

Our computing curriculum also supports the promotion of British Values, particularly:

• Respect and tolerance when communicating online
• Individual liberty through safe and responsible technology use
• The rule of law in understanding online rules, rights and responsibilities 
   

Implementation:

Computing at Heathrow Primary School is taught through the Kapow scheme of work, ensuring consistency, progression and high-quality teaching across all year groups.

The curriculum is structured around four key strands:

• Computer systems and networks
• Programming and coding
• Creating digital media
• Data and information

Lessons are carefully sequenced to build on prior knowledge and are designed to be engaging, practical and inclusive. Teachers use a range of strategies, including modelling, questioning and collaborative learning, to support all pupils in developing their understanding.

Pupils are given regular opportunities to:

• Apply their knowledge in meaningful contexts
• Develop problem-solving and computational thinking skills
• Work both independently and collaboratively
• Reflect on their learning and improve their work

In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), computing is introduced through exploration and play. Children develop early computational thinking skills using programmable toys, interactive whiteboards and simple digital devices. They begin to understand cause and effect, follow instructions and recognise the role of technology in everyday life.

Online safety is explicitly taught every term and is also embedded across the wider curriculum, including PSHE and assemblies. This ensures that safeguarding remains at the forefront of pupils’ learning.

Impact:

The impact of our computing curriculum is that pupils at Heathrow Primary School:

• Develop a secure and well-sequenced understanding of key computing concepts
• Can apply their knowledge creatively, independently and with increasing confidence
• Demonstrate resilience and effective problem-solving when faced with challenges
• Use technology purposefully across the curriculum
• Understand how to stay safe online and act responsibly in digital environments

Pupils leave Heathrow Primary School as digitally literate individuals who are well-prepared for the next stage of their education and able to participate safely and positively in a digital society.
 

Online Safety – Information for Parents and Carers:

At Heathrow Primary School, safeguarding is our highest priority. Online safety forms a key part of our safeguarding curriculum and is revisited every term to ensure pupils develop a secure and up-to-date understanding of how to stay safe online.

Through our teaching, pupils learn to:

• Keep personal information secure and understand privacy
• Recognise risks such as cyberbullying, scams and inappropriate content
• Communicate respectfully and responsibly online
• Understand the concept of a digital footprint
• Know how and where to seek help and support
   

We actively promote a strong partnership between school and home. Parents and carers play a vital role in supporting children to use technology safely and positively.

We recommend the following trusted websites for guidance:

• Thinkuknow – www.thinkuknow.co.uk
• NSPCC Online Safety – www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety
• UK Safer Internet Centre – www.saferinternet.org.uk

By working together, we can ensure that all children develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to navigate the online world safely, responsibly and successfully.