Computing
Subject Vision
We aim to:
Develop computational thinking and problem-solving skills.
Enhance digital literacy and creativity through real-world applications.
Promote cyber resilience and responsible technology use.
Prepare students for careers in the digital economy.
Aims
- Understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation.
- Analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems.
- Evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems.
- Be responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.
Intent
At Bournville All-Through School, our Computing curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world. We place strong emphasis on developing secure digital literacy, computational thinking and creative problem solving so that pupils can navigate technology with confidence, curiosity and responsibility. Our curriculum enables students to understand how digital systems work, how information is processed and how technology shapes the world around them. It also nurtures creativity through meaningful, real world applications of digital tools and media.
In the primary phase we use Purple Mash to develop our curriculum which is fully aligned to the National Curriculum. This gives students the foundations of coding, data handling and digital content creation which are then developed further in the secondary phase.
We are committed to promoting cyber resilience and responsible digital citizenship. Students learn how to use technology safely, ethically and respectfully, preparing them to participate positively in online communities. As pupils progress through the curriculum, they encounter increasingly sophisticated concepts that build towards clear endpoints, ensuring they are well prepared for further study in Key Stage 4 and for future pathways in the digital economy. Our ambition is that every learner leaves Bournville All-Through School with the confidence to pursue careers in computing, digital media, IT, or any field where technological fluency is essential.
The curriculum has been built using the following components:
Computer Science
Information Technology
Digital Literacy
Students develop a strong foundation in the core principles of Computer Science and Digital Media. They explore how computer systems operate, how networks function and how cybersecurity protects individuals and organisations. Pupils learn to think logically and computationally through programming, using both block based environments and text-based languages such as Python. They also study data representation and digital logic, gaining insight into how information is stored, processed and transmitted.
Alongside these technical elements, students engage with creative digital media, including digital design, image manipulation and interactive media production. This combination of theoretical understanding and practical application ensures that pupils develop both the analytical and creative dimensions of computing. By the end of KS3, students have a secure grounding that enables them to progress confidently into further study.
At Key Stage 4, students specialise through the AQA Computer Science qualification, a course that mirrors industry practice and prepares learners for a wide range of digital careers. AQA Computer Science gives students a strong understanding of how modern technology works and how it shapes the world around us. The course combines practical programming with the study of real computer systems, helping students develop the problem solving, logical thinking and digital skills that are essential in today’s society.
Students learn how computers process information, how networks operate and how data is stored and secured. They also develop their programming skills through hands on coding tasks, building confidence in writing, testing and refining their own programs. Alongside this, pupils explore key issues such as cybersecurity, ethical use of technology and the impact of computing on individuals and organisations.
Learning Journey
Click on the link below to take a look at our Bournville – All-Through School Computing Learning Journey.