Computing
Technology Across the Curriculum
Embedded throughout the curriculum from age two and taught as a stand-alone subject, it underpins learning across every area of school life. From problem-solving in maths and science to creative projects in art and design, children learn to think critically, logically and imaginatively with technology at their fingertips. Whether discovering the depths of the ocean in science, travelling to far-flung corners of the globe in geography or stepping back in time to explore ancient civilisations in history through Virtual Reality headsets, technology brings learning vividly to life. Alongside coding and digital literacy, children begin to understand how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, are shaping the world around them.
At Chinthurst, computing empowers children to become creators rather than consumers of technology. Through coding, design and digital exploration, they develop the confidence, creativity and critical thinking skills needed for an ever-changing world.
Kate Gilmore, Computing Lead
Building Confidence with Technology in the Lower School
From Reception, children begin exploring technology in a variety of engaging ways. Indi Cars introduce coding through hands-on challenges that progress from Reception to Year 2, while Busy Things supports learning across the curriculum. Purple Mash further develops coding and creativity through links with Maths, English and creative projects. By Years 1 and 2, children confidently use iPads to research, animate and code using Scratch Junior, strengthening their creativity, problem-solving and independence. Children also develop early coding vocabulary through both digital and real-life activities, learning key concepts such as algorithms and debugging.
In weekly Computing lessons in Reception, children use iPads and desktop computers to build digital literacy skills, practising keyboard and mouse control alongside creative apps. These lessons support fine motor development and confidence with age-appropriate software, culminating in the final half term when children create their own digital music. Online safety is a key focus throughout, as children learn how to stay safe when using technology.
In Years 1 and 2, children are taught by a specialist teacher in our dedicated IT suite, building on their early experience of touchscreen and keyboard-based technology. Year 1 pupils develop their skills through activities such as Indi Cars, LEGO Builders, animated storybooks, Scratch Junior and designing their own maze games. In Year 2, learning progresses to using Microsoft Word, Scratch, 2Code on Purple Mash and computer art, further enhancing their technical skills and creativity.
Designing, Programming and Innovating in the Upper School
In the Upper School, computing lessons take coding and creativity to the next level. Years 3 and 4 enjoy one dedicated Computing lesson each week, increasing to two lessons per week in Years 5 and 6. Using Sphero Bolt+ robots, children move beyond the basics to programme complex movements, integrate sensors and tackle challenges like real engineers. They also develop digital storytelling through stop-motion animation and explore 3D design with TinkerCAD and our 3D printers, producing everything from marble mazes to practical pen pots.
iPads are used across all year groups, enriching learning in every subject. By Years 5 and 6, children advance to Surface Go laptops, building the digital skills they need for senior school and beyond. They also innovate with Makey Makey kits, transforming bananas into pianos or playdough into keyboards, proving that computing at Chinthurst is as much about imagination as it is about code.
Teachers are knowledgeable and skilled in the areas that they teach.
ISI Inspection 2026