Computing

Intent 

At St. Michael’s, we aim to develop confident, curious, and independent users of technology. We don’t want children to simply consume technology—we want them to understand it, shape it, and use it positively and responsibly. In a digital age where technology influences every aspect of life, we strive to equip our pupils with the knowledge and critical thinking skills they need to thrive.

We teach computing using the Purple Mash scheme of work as the foundation of our curriculum (although far from the entirety of our curriculum), chosen for its comprehensive and engaging approach. It fosters resilience, problem-solving, independence, and clear communication—skills essential for lifelong learning and success.

Our broad, progressive curriculum nurtures a love of computing while supporting children to become responsible digital citizens. We place a strong emphasis on choice and responsibility—particularly when it comes to digital communication and social media. These values are underpinned by our school rules:

• Treat others as you want to be treated

• Try your best in everything that you do

By the time pupils leave St. Michael’s, they will have built a strong foundation in the three pillars of the computing curriculum:

• Computer Science – understanding how systems and algorithms work; writing code and debugging programs
• Information Technology – using tools to create, store, retrieve and send information
• Digital Literacy – using technology respectfully, safely, and effectively, while evaluating digital content with care

Implementation 

From Reception through to Year 6, children have regular access to Chromebooks to support hands-on, real-time learning with technology. Our curriculum follows the Purple Mash scheme of work, which offers clear progression in line with the National Curriculum and supports all learners to develop as effective computational thinkers.

The curriculum is designed to be cyclical—pupils revisit key concepts across year groups, building confidence, vocabulary and technical fluency over time. Each unit is practical and engaging, covering a wide range of topics including:

• Coding and algorithm design
• Spreadsheets and data handling
• Internet use and email
• Databases and communication networks
• Animation, touch typing and music composition
• Online safety and digital responsibility

Children use Purple Mash’s creative suite of tools—including 2Sequence, 2Animate, and 2Calculate—to deepen understanding through purposeful cross-curricular links with subjects such as maths and music.

Every pupil and staff member has an individual Purple Mash login, enabling learning to extend beyond the classroom. Teachers can assign tasks, provide feedback, and celebrate achievements via the platform, while pupils can access their work and complete assignments from home.

Online safety is a consistent thread throughout our computing curriculum. In addition to dedicated online safety units, our pupils take part in regular, SLT-led safeguarding assemblies that address current digital trends and reinforce safe behaviour online.

To enrich this core scheme, we also integrate a variety of hardware and software tools that deepen pupils’ understanding through real-world application and practical problem-solving:

• Bee-Bots are child-friendly, programmable floor robots used in EYFS and Key Stage 1. Pupils begin developing their computational thinking by sequencing instructions (algorithms), identifying patterns, and debugging simple programs in a highly tangible and engaging way.
• Micro:bits are pocket-sized programmable computers introduced in Key Stage 2. These devices allow pupils to experiment with real-world coding by creating everything from step counters to digital displays. Using block-based or text-based programming, children gain insight into how software interacts with hardware—bridging the gap between abstract programming concepts and their physical outcomes.
• Scratch, a visual programming language, is used throughout Key Stage 2 to teach fundamental coding skills. With its drag-and-drop interface, Scratch helps children design animations, build interactive stories, and create simple games. These projects develop logical reasoning, creativity, and resilience in debugging—all while fostering collaborative learning.

Each unit of work is structured to build on prior knowledge, with clear modelling using the “I do, We do, You do” approach. Children are guided through the computing process—from learning new vocabulary and concepts to applying skills independently in increasingly complex contexts.

Impact

Our computing curriculum is thoughtfully planned and designed to ensure knowledge and skills are embedded and built upon year after year. We assess the impact of our provision through a range of strategies, including:

• Pupil voice interviews and classroom discussions
• Subject leader monitoring and evidence gathering
• Visual documentation of practical learning
• Reflection on pupil outcomes against planned objectives
• Learning walks and feedback from teaching staff
• Dedicated leadership time to evaluate and improve provision
• Review of saved pupil work within the Purple Mash platform

Through this approach, we ensure that computing at St. Michael’s is purposeful, progressive, and empowering—preparing our pupils to navigate and contribute to an ever-evolving digital world.

 Certainly! Here’s a breakdown of the computing coverage at St. Michael’s CE Primary Academy across the three key stages, incorporating content from the Purple Mash scheme of work, as well as the structured use of Bee-Bots and Micro:bits:

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

Focus: Exploring technology in a play-based environment and understanding basic computing concepts through hands-on experience.

Themes & Knowledge:

• Understanding that technology is part of everyday life (e.g., using digital devices at home and in school)
• Recognising simple digital devices (e.g., phones, tablets, Bee-Bots)
• Developing fine motor control through interactive games and creative software (e.g., Mini Mash)
• Early algorithmic thinking—giving and following simple instructions
• Exploration of cause and effect using programmable toys like Bee-Bots
• Introduction to online safety and making safe choices when using technology

Key Tools Used:

• Bee-Bots: Introduce directional language, spatial awareness, and basic coding
• Mini Mash (EYFS-friendly platform on Purple Mash): Encourages exploration, sorting, painting, and letter formation

Key Stage One (Years 1–2)

Focus: Developing foundational skills in computing, with a growing understanding of programming, digital content creation, and online safety.

Topics & Knowledge:

• Algorithms & Programming: Understanding and creating simple algorithms; introducing block-based programming
• Coding: Beginning to write basic code using Purple Mash tools like 2Code
• Digital Art & Publishing: Using tools like 2Paint A Picture and 2Publish to create posters, digital drawings, and writing
• Spreadsheets & Data Handling: Introducing basic data collection and presentation with 2Calculate
• Online Safety: Recognising trusted adults, understanding what personal information is, making safe choices online
• Technology Around Us: Exploring common uses of ICT in daily life

Key Tools Used:

• Bee-Bots: Continued use for understanding algorithms, debugging, and directional logic
• Purple Mash: Core resource across all topics with interactive lessons and creative tools

Key Stage Two (Years 3–6)

Focus: Deepening technical understanding and problem-solving using a range of digital tools and programming applications.

Topics & Knowledge:

• Computer Science:
  • Writing more complex algorithms using 2Code and Scratch
  • Debugging and refining code
  • Introduction to selection, repetition, variables and inputs
  • Programming physical devices like Micro:bits (from Year 5 onwards)
• Information Technology:
  • Using 2Publish+, 2Blog, and 2Email to communicate and share ideas
  • Creating, editing, and presenting with digital media
  • Using spreadsheets (2Calculate) to model and analyse data
  • Databases: building and searching data with 2Investigate
• Digital Literacy:
  • Understanding the impact of digital footprints
  • Cyberbullying, secure passwords, and recognising safe websites
  • Evaluating online content and understanding media bias
• Cross-Curricular Application:
  • Coding musical patterns (2Sequence)
  • Storyboarding and animation (2Animate)
  • Geography links via simulation models and surveys
  • Literacy support through blogging and publishing platforms

Key Tools Used:

• Scratch: Teaching programming principles and creativity in computing projects
• Micro:bits (Years 5 & 6): Hands-on coding with real-world outcomes—e.g., creating step counters or LED displays
• Purple Mash: Continues to be the foundation for lesson delivery and pupil access to interactive learning