Intent
Computing is a fundamental part of modern life, and at High Wycombe Church of England School, we want all children to become responsible, respectful, and creative users of technology. Our Computing curriculum enables children to understand how digital systems work, develop computational thinking, and express themselves through a range of digital media.
Through our teaching, which is grounded in the Teach Computing scheme of work, children build knowledge and skills across four key areas of the curriculum: programming, creating media, data and information, and computing systems and networks. This is supported by a strong and ongoing emphasis on e-safety, ensuring children know how to stay safe, make wise choices, and use technology in ways that are compassionate and kind.
We believe that Computing, like all learning, should be values-led. Our Christian values of compassion, peace, respect, forgiveness, hope, and thankfulness are deeply embedded in the way we teach and learn about digital technologies. Children are taught to treat others with dignity online, to show thankfulness for the opportunities technology provides, and to use their skills in ways that promote peace and help others. We nurture a hopeful view of the future, where digital tools can be used to build a fairer, more connected and inclusive world.
Our aim is to inspire all children to see themselves as digital creators, problem-solvers and responsible citizens in an ever-changing world.
Implementation
We provide a thriving computing culture for all children in our school, ensuring lessons are engaging, progressive and inclusive. Computing is taught in well-sequenced blocks using the Teach Computing scheme, which is carefully mapped to the National Curriculum. Each strand of the curriculum is revisited over time, allowing children to build on prior learning, deepen their understanding, and apply their skills with confidence and independence.
In Programming, children learn to write, test and debug code. They are encouraged to be resilient and reflective learners, showing forgiveness when mistakes occur and supporting each other with compassion and patience.
In Creating Media, children use digital tools to express themselves. They are taught to consider the impact of their creations, to be respectful and thoughtful in their communication, and to take pride in producing work that has purpose and meaning.
In Data and Information, children collect, organise and analyse data. They are encouraged to be honest and careful in how they handle information, understanding that truthfulness and integrity are vital digital values.
In Computing Systems and Networks, children explore how digital devices and systems connect. We promote hopeful conversations about how technology can be used to build community and improve lives.
Throughout the curriculum, e-safety is taught explicitly and revisited regularly. Children are taught how to act with respect, show compassion online, and seek peaceful resolutions to conflict. We promote responsible and ethical use of technology, ensuring pupils understand the consequences of their digital actions.
Impact
The impact of our Computing curriculum is seen in children who are confident, creative and safe users of technology. They understand how digital systems work, can solve problems independently and collaboratively, and are equipped with the vocabulary and knowledge to explain their thinking.
Children at High Wycombe Church of England School:
Apply their computing skills across the curriculum with confidence and purpose;
Understand how to keep themselves and others safe online, showing compassion, respect and wisdom in their digital choices;
Reflect our Christian values through their digital behaviour and interactions, treating others with kindness and respect;
Embrace the challenges of programming and data work with hope, perseverance and thankfulness;
Use technology to create content that is meaningful, inclusive and respectful of diverse experiences.
Our pupils leave HWCE as digitally literate individuals, well-prepared for the next stage of their education and life in the modern world. More importantly, they leave us with a strong moral foundation, using technology in ways that promote peace, build community and express their unique creativity with integrity and joy.