Computing 
The Orchard School uses the Teach Computing curriculum from the National Centre of Computing Education (NCCE) to introduce young children to the exciting world of computing. This curriculum is designed to help our youngest students develop essential digital skills, spark their curiosity, and build a strong foundation for future learning in technology.
The Teach Computing curriculum focuses on simple and engaging activities that develop early computational thinking. Children learn to solve problems, understand basic concepts like sequences and patterns, and break down tasks into easy-to-understand steps. Through fun and interactive programming exercises, they begin to see how instructions create actions, helping them write and test simple code.
In learning about data and information, children start with basic skills like collecting and organizing information. They use simple tools to sort and display data, learning the importance of being careful and accurate. Even at this young age, we emphasize the importance of privacy and treating information with care.
Understanding technology is another key part of our curriculum. Children explore the basics of how computers and other devices work, including the parts they can see and touch, like keyboards and screens. They also learn about the internet in a safe and controlled environment, starting to understand how we connect and share information.
Digital literacy is crucial for our young learners. We teach them how to use technology safely and kindly, emphasizing the importance of good manners online and keeping personal information private. We encourage them to be creative, using digital tools to draw, write, and share their ideas.
Our curriculum is tailored to be age-appropriate, ensuring that activities and concepts match the developmental stages of our children. Through hands-on activities and playful learning, they are engaged and excited about exploring technology. Regular check-ins help us understand how each child is progressing and where they might need extra help.
The goals of our computing curriculum for children at The Orchard School are to nurture a love for technology, inspire creativity, and build confidence in using digital tools. By starting with simple, enjoyable activities, we aim to prepare our youngest children for a future where technology plays a significant role. The Teach Computing curriculum helps us provide a safe, fun, and enriching introduction to the world of computing.
Subject Leader Report Computing
Knowledge Organisers
Please click on the pictures below for the key knowledge, skills and vocabulary taught in each Computing unit of work.
Computing in Reception
In Reception, computing forms part of the learning children acquire under the ‘Knowledge and Understanding of the World' branch of the Foundation Stage curriculum. They learn about technology, how things work.
Computing in the early years encourages your child to find out and identify the uses of everyday technology, such as office equipment, music keyboards, alarms and programmable toys. Children also practise what they have learnt by using the technology. There is a range of computing equipment to use such as a large interactive screen, iPads and Bee bots.
In early years computing they will gain a range of skills widely applicable in life, such as cognitive, coordination, literacy and numeracy skills.
Online Safety
As well as these foundational computing skills, online safety is a crucial element to our computing curriculum and this is taught through Project Evolve.
Our Project Evolve initiative prioritizes online safety to ensure our young learners navigate the digital world securely. Through age-appropriate lessons and interactive activities, we teach children about safe internet practices, the importance of privacy, and how to recognise and respond to potential online risks. By empowering our children with the knowledge and skills to stay safe online, we create a foundation for responsible and confident digital citizenship. We also take part in Safer Internet Day every year.
Safer Internet Day is an annual event dedicated to promoting safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile devices, especially among children and young people. Through a range of activities, including workshops, presentations, and interactive sessions, this day aims to educate children about online safety, privacy, and digital citizenship. By participating in Safer Internet Day, we empower our young learners with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the digital world securely and confidently.
Please click on the pictures below for the key knowledge, skills and vocabulary taught in each Computing unit of work.
