Computing
At Hartside Primary Academy, we want our pupils to become confident, creative and responsible users of technology. Our computing curriculum is designed to build pupils’ computational understanding step by step, while also showing them how digital skills connect to everyday life. Just as our history curriculum strengthens pupils’ sense of place, our computing curriculum prepares them for an ever‑changing digital world, helping them understand how technology shapes the present and future.
Computing is taught both as a discrete subject and through meaningful links with other areas such as science, mathematics, and design and technology. This allows children to apply their learning in real contexts, solve problems, and understand how technology can support and enhance their work across the curriculum.
We follow a carefully sequenced progression of skills that includes using technology purposefully, developing internet skills, understanding e‑safety, exploring how technology is used in the wider world, and learning to code. These strands are revisited regularly so that knowledge is strengthened, deepened and applied over time.
To bring computing to life, lessons are taught through Natterhub, alongside real‑life tasks that make learning relevant and engaging. Our coding curriculum is enriched through hands‑on experience with physical computing: pupils in Years 1 and 2 use VEX 123 robots to explore simple algorithms and programming, while pupils in Years 3 to 6 develop more advanced skills using Crumble controllers.
Throughout their time at Hartside, pupils learn not only how to use technology, but also how to do so safely, responsibly and thoughtfully. They are encouraged to experiment, problem‑solve and think creatively—developing the digital skills, resilience and curiosity they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
In the following documents you’ll find easy-to-follow explanations of the tools and platforms that children use every single day, as well as tips for dealing with some of the most common problems that they pose.
