"Alan Turing gave us a mathematical model of digital computing that has completely withstood the test of time. He gave us a very, very clear description that was truly prophetic."

George Dyson

Computing

Our Computing curriculum has been carefully designed by Gillas Lane staff working alongside experts in the primary computing sector. This has given us assurance that our Computing curriculum is rigorous, relevant and raises aspirations; it has been sequenced to ensure that children are well prepared to access their next steps in the curriculum.

Each unit has linked Online Safety questions taken from Project Evolve and linked to Education for a Connected World. 

Here are our long term plans for Computing.

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Computing Progressive Milestones in Disciplinary Learning

 

Our Computing Milestones contain the disciplinary knowledge needed to understand the disciplinary concepts. Our mid term planning specifies the substantive knowledge the children will learn.

 

 

Disciplinary Knowledge - thinking like a computer user or computer scientist

  • searching
  • editing
  • creating
  • testing
  • tinkering
  • predicting

 

Take a look at our Progressive Milestones in Disciplinary Learning:

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Substantive Knowledge

Digital Literacy

  • Becoming an effective and safe user of a range of computer systems
  • Using physical devices
  • Knowledge of the features that likely to mean digital content is reliable

Information Technology

  • Provides a context for the use of computers in society
  • How computers are used in different sectors
  • Describe the methods used to create digital artefacts such as presentations, spreadsheets and videos

Computer Science

* Knowledge of computers and computation

  • Concepts such as data, system architecture, algorithms and programming

 

Take a look at our Substantive Knowledge Map:

 

 

 

 

 

The Importance of Computing in the Early Years

 

In today’s digital world, computing is an essential part of early education, helping children develop the skills they need to thrive in a technology-rich environment. At Gillas Lane, we introduce computing in a way that is playful, age-appropriate, and deeply connected to children’s everyday experiences.

 

Early exposure to computing supports problem-solving, logical thinking, and creativity. Through activities such as coding with simple apps, exploring digital storytelling, and using programmable toys, children begin to understand how technology works and how it can be used to express ideas and solve problems.

 

Computing also enhances communication and collaboration. At Gillas Lane, children learn to share digital resources, work together on interactive tasks, and explore different ways of presenting information. These experiences build confidence and encourage teamwork.

 

Importantly, computing in the early years helps children develop digital literacy and an understanding of how to use technology safely and responsibly. We teach children the basics of online safety in a way that is accessible and meaningful, laying the foundation for responsible digital citizenship.

 

By embedding computing into our early years curriculum, we aim to spark curiosity, foster resilience, and prepare children for a future where technology will play an increasingly important role in learning, work, and everyday life.

 

Take a look below at our Computing Early Years Link Documents to see what computing looks like in Early Years and to see how what our children learn in the Early Years supports them as they move into Key Stage 1 and beyond.

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Computing and SEND

 

Computing can be a powerful tool for supporting learners with SEND, providing opportunities for access, communication, and skill development. By using technology and adapting teaching approaches, educators can create inclusive computing environments where all students can thrive. 

 

Take a look at how we adapt our Computing curriculum to support SEND:

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