"Whether you want to discover the secrets of the universe, or you just want to pursue a career in the 21st century, basic computer programming is an essential skill to learn." - Stephen Hawking

Technology is changing everyone’s lives and plays a pivotal part in pupils’ lives and our broad curriculum encompassing computer science, information technology and digital literacy reflects this. Our aim is to provide pupils with the fundamental skills and knowledge to become competent users of technology and active participants in the digital world, where they can make a positive difference.

Curriculum Intent

At Cannon Lane we aim for our children to be STARS in Computing.

S – Share

Computing lessons will equip pupils with the fundamental skills and knowledge to become competent users and give pupils opportunities to collaborate and to learn from one another. Pupils will have a safe learning environment where they can be confident in sharing their ideas and misconceptions. Through technology, pupils can share their learning in creative ways and may access other areas of the curriculum more easily.

T – Try 

Exploration and experimenting are key attributes to Computing. Therefore pupils will always try their best and be fully aware that it is ok to make mistakes. Having a growth mindset will help pupils become resilient learners who can achieve outstanding results.

A - Aspire

Through a modern, ambitious and relevant Computing Curriculum, pupils will aspire to become skilful computer scientists and effective digital citizens. Through their learning, we hope pupils will be excited and inspired to be the next pioneer of the digital world.

R - Respect 

The teaching of Computing will enable pupils to gain the confidence they need to engage respectfully, responsibly and safely in a rapidly changing world where work and recreational activities are increasingly transformed by technology.

S - Shine

The Computing Curriculum will provide opportunities for pupils to shine. They will be proud of their achievements, which will be reflected in the Computing tasks they complete. Pupils will also be able to use technology to shine across the wider curriculum, where they can apply their learning, develop their creativity and deepen their understanding.

All learning is adapted so all children can achieve and make progress.  

Curriculum Implementation 

The curriculum aims for pupils to embrace technology and develop the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to thrive in the digital world of today and the future. To ensure pupils are well prepared, Cannon Lane Primary School has adopted the NCCE “Teach Computing” scheme of work created by subject experts and based on the latest pedagogical research which enables pupils to develop their competencies across three main strands: digital literacy, computer science and information technology. The scheme of work comprehensively covers all aspects of the National Curriculum which aims to ensure all pupils: 

• can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation (Computer science)
• can analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems (Computer science)
• can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems (Information technology)
• are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology. (Digital literacy)

It provides an innovative spiral framework where computing content (concepts, knowledge, skills and objectives) has been organised into interrelated units. Each unit has been planned to facilitate effective progression of key skills and knowledge across key stages, in line with the National Curriculum. Themes are revisited regularly (at least once in each year group), and pupils revisit each theme through a new unit that consolidates and builds on prior learning within that theme. Computing is taught through discreet lessons, however, to reflect the digital world we live in, staff are encouraged to use technology in other subjects and enable pupils to make meaningful links wherever possible. 

A key part of implementing the computing curriculum is to ensure that pupils’ safety is paramount. Pupils have a right to enjoy their childhood online, to access safe online spaces and to benefit from all the opportunities that a connected world can bring them, appropriate to their age and stage. In order to facilitate this, Cannon Lane has embedded Online Safety throughout its Curriculum. Issues such as cyberbullying, online wellbeing, screen time/addiction, the reliability of information and ‘Stanger danger’ are discussed in PSHE lessons and assemblies and well as discussed in Computing lessons. Pupils are taught the SMART rules of online safety and participate in initiatives such as Safer Internet Day to build the skills and knowledge that they may need to keep themselves safe online.

Curriculum Impact

Pupils know how and why technology is used in the outside world, and in the workplace. They know about different ways that computers can be used. Progress of our computing curriculum is demonstrated through outcomes and the record of coverage in the process of achieving these outcomes. Pupils discuss, reflect and appreciate the impact computing has on their learning, development and well being. Finding the right balance with technology is key to an effective education and a healthy life-style. The way the Computing curriculum is implemented helps pupils realise the need for the right balance and one they can continue to build on in their next stage of education and beyond. Regular discussions are pertinent between teachers and pupils to best embed and understand this. The way pupils showcase, share, celebrate and publish their work reflect the quality of the curriculum and show the impact on pupils’ learning. Through discussion and feedback, pupils talk enthusiastically about their computing lessons and speak about how they love learning on the computer. They have the skills to use technology independently, for example accessing age-appropriate software and games in EYFS and using a range of computer software independently in KS1 and KS2. Through this programme of study, the school’s vision is realised: a happy and safe community is created where all members are included, secure and confident and have an equal opportunity to fulfil their potential and experience success. Pupils develop the skills necessary to make a valuable contribution to society, both now and in the future, and become responsible citizens of the digital world.

Cultural Capital

Coding club

Children from Year 2 to Year 6 have had the opportunity to join a coding club after school. Through fun and engaging activities, they develop their coding skills.  

Hour of Code

Children participated in the 'Hour of Code' during STEM week. Based on their coding level, children completed a coding project in one hour. If you would like to access these resources at home visit here. 

STEM Week

During STEM week, children participated in a virtual reality workshop focusing on different aspects of the curriculum such as the environment, animals and space.