Livingstone Primary School
Computing
Technology is an integral part of modern life, and children encounter it from a very young age. At Livingstone, we believe it is essential that our pupils learn to use technology confidently, creatively, and responsibly.
From Nursery through to Year 6, children experience a wide range of digital tools and learning opportunities. Our computing curriculum is designed to develop strong foundations in computer science, digital literacy, and online safety, ensuring every child is equipped with the skills they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Computing is taught as a dedicated subject, but it is also embedded across the wider curriculum. Technology is used to enhance learning in many subjects, helping pupils apply and strengthen their computing skills in meaningful, real‑world contexts. This approach supports children in becoming capable, independent, and digitally literate learners.
Online safety is a key priority at Livingstone. Alongside taking part in national initiatives such as Safer Internet Day, we use the Education for a Connected World framework through Project Evolve, and Purple Mash as well as other high‑quality resources, to ensure online safety is taught consistently throughout the school.
Our aim is to empower every child to navigate the digital world with confidence, curiosity, and care.
We also provide a dedicated Online Safety page on our website to support both children and parents. It includes practical advice, helpful resources, and guidance on staying safe online. Please follow the link to find out more.
Livingstone Primary School: Online Safety
EYFS - In the Early Years, children are introduced to technology through interactive, play‑based experiences. They use educational games on the smartboard through platforms such as Purple Mash and Topmarks, helping them develop early digital skills. Children explore simple coding using hands‑on resources like the Code‑a‑Pillar and Coding Dinosaur, learning about cause and effect and basic instructions. They are also introduced to the idea of being online and offline, learn key vocabulary such as internet, and are taught to speak to a trusted adult if something online makes them feel unsure.
Key Stage One -In Key Stage One, pupils use Chromebooks weekly to build confidence and independence. Year 1 pupils explore digital drawing and early word‑processing using 2Simple on Purple Mash, and learn how technology has changed over time. By Year 2, children begin using the internet for simple research linked to their topics. Across both year groups, pupils develop early coding skills through Purple Mash and Bee Bots, learning sequencing, simple algorithms, and how to give clear instructions.
Lower Key Stage Two - In Years 3 and 4, pupils build on their digital skills by editing and formatting text, combining images, and organising their work by saving and retrieving files independently. They explore data handling through simple spreadsheets and create bar charts and pie charts using Purple Mash. Coding skills progress as pupils create more complex sequences and test their ideas, developing logical thinking and problem‑solving. Children also learn how to search safely online using child‑friendly tools such as Swiggle.
Upper Key Stage Two - In Years 5 and 6, pupils refine their online research skills, learning to find accurate, reliable information and to use the internet responsibly. Their presentation skills become more advanced as they incorporate sound, hyperlinks, transitions, and animations across the curriculum. Online safety and wellbeing are key themes, with pupils learning about cyberbullying and how to manage healthy digital habits. Coding continues through Purple Mash, and pupils are introduced to Micro:bits, giving them hands‑on experience with more advanced programming as they prepare for Key Stage Three.