Computing at Cumberland

Our Intent 

Computing at Cumberland Infant School

At Cumberland, our intent is to inspire a love of Computing while equipping children with transferable skills such as problem‑solving, resilience, creativity, and critical thinking. 

We believe our carefully sequenced and engaging Computing curriculum develops confident, capable, and responsible digital learners, enabling children to become active participants in a digital society and laying strong foundations for their future education.

At Cumberland, we recognise that today’s children are growing up in a rapidly changing, technology‑driven world full of new possibilities. Many of the jobs they will hold in the future do not yet exist, and technology will continue to shape how they live, learn, and work. Our Computing curriculum is designed to equip all children with the knowledge, skills, and understanding they need to thrive, navigate safely, participate confidently, and make positive contributions in an increasingly digital world. 

 

A Broad and Rich Computing Curriculum 

From the earliest years, children at Cumberland are offered a broad range of high-quality computing experiences. Our integrated and imaginative approach ensures computing is meaningful and purposeful, embedded across the curriculum and linked to real‑world contexts. 

Computing is taught through the three core strands of the National Curriculum: 

  • Computer Science – developing early problem‑solving, logical thinking, and understanding of algorithms 

  • Information Technology – using devices and software to create digital content 

  • Digital Literacy – understanding how to use technology safely, respectfully, and responsibly 

These areas are delivered through engaging,  projects that encourage curiosity, creativity, and independence — whether children are debugging simple programs, creating animations, or using technology to support their learning in history, science, or English. 

Artificial Intelligence and Understanding the Digital World 

As part of our commitment to preparing children for life in modern Britain, we introduce age‑appropriate examples of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Through demonstrations, carefully chosen examples and discussions, children learn what AI is, how it can help people, and where it is commonly used. 

Importantly, pupils are also taught to understand the limitations of AI. They learn that: 

  • AI systems are created by humans and can be wrong 

  • AI does not think or feel like a person 

  • Not everything they see, read, or hear online is true 

This supports the development of early critical thinking skills, helping children to question information, recognise unreliable or misleading content, and seek help when something does not feel right. 

Online Safety and Digital Literacy 

Digital literacy and online safety are central to our Computing curriculum. In line with National Curriculum expectations and Ofsted guidance, children are taught how to: 

  • Use technology safely and responsibly 

  • Understand what is appropriate to share online 

  • Know how and when to ask a trusted adult for help 

By teaching these skills early, we ensure children can access digital content and tools without compromising their learning, wellbeing, or enjoyment. 

 
 

 Click Below for Progression of Knowledge and Skills

 

Click HERE for Progression of Knowledge and Skills for Pre-school