The Subject Lead for Computing is Miss Thomas:

At Irk Valley we recognise that pupils are living in a rapidly changing world, in which computing is playing an ever-increasing role. Therefore, we aim to equip children with the skills to adapt to new technology and to give them confidence to use computing to further their learning and assist them in everyday life. In doing so, all pupils will have access to computing equipment and resources, according to their ability and age range.

Teach Computing:

At Irk Valley, we want every child to become a confident, creative, and safe user of technology. That’s why we use the Teach Computing curriculum, developed by the National Centre for Computing Education. Here’s what makes it great:

Fully Aligned with the National Curriculum

• Covers all key areas: Computer Science, Information Technology, and Digital Literacy.
• Ensures children build strong foundations and progress confidently.

Designed Using Research

• Lessons are based on proven teaching methods that help children remember and apply what they learn.
• Key concepts are revisited regularly to deepen understanding.

High-Quality Resources

• Includes ready-to-use lesson plans, slides, activities, and assessments.
• Helps teachers deliver consistent, engaging lessons across all year groups.

Inclusive and Accessible

• Supports all learners, including those with SEND and EAL.
• Promotes diversity and shows how computing connects us to the wider world.

Built-In Assessment

• Tracks progress through clear learning goals and end-of-unit outcomes.
• Helps teachers identify gaps and celebrate achievements.

What is Computing?

Computing is all about learning how computers work and how we can use them to solve problems, be creative, and stay safe online.

Children learn to:

• Think like a computer – breaking big problems into smaller steps and using logic to solve them.
• Write code – giving computers instructions to make games, animations, or tools.
• Use technology – creating documents, presentations, and handling data.
• Understand the digital world – learning how the internet works and how people connect online.
• Stay safe and kind online – knowing how to protect themselves and others when using technology.

Computing helps children become confident, creative, and responsible users of technology—skills they’ll use in school, at home, and in the future.

A successful Computing lesson at Irk Valley will ensure pupils are:

• Confident Thinkers: Children can break down problems, design solutions, and explain how technology works using clear, logical thinking.
• Knowledgeable and Curious : They remember key computing concepts and vocabulary, ask thoughtful questions, and want to explore how digital tools shape the world.
• Creative Digital Creators: Pupils use technology to make animations, games, presentations, and data projects that reflect their ideas and learning.
• Effective Communicators: They use computing language accurately, work well with others, and share their thinking through discussion and collaboration.
• Safe and Responsible Users: Children understand how to stay safe online, respect others, and know what to do if something worries them.
• More Globally Aware: They see how computing connects people, solves problems, and opens up exciting opportunities in the wider world.

Areas of the Computing Curriculum:

Explore Computing: