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Computing

Computing at Cribden House prepares pupils to safely, confidently and creatively navigate an increasingly digital world. The curriculum is practical, engaging and personalised, giving every learner the opportunity to explore technology, develop digital skills and use computing as a tool for communication, creativity and problem-solving.

We teach Computing through three key strands:

  • Digital Literacy – using technology purposefully and safely

  • Computer Science – understanding how digital systems and simple programs work

  • Information Technology – using software to create, explore and solve problems

As a Total Communication School, we use speech, symbols, visuals, signing, switches, assistive technology and communication devices to ensure all children can access, understand and interact with digital content. Technology is a powerful tool for communication at Cribden House, enabling pupils of all abilities to take part and succeed.

Being Pathway

On the Being Pathway, Computing is taught through a three-year cycle of sensory topics such as Ourselves, Celebrations, Animal Antics, Dinosaurs and Around the World in 6 Weeks. Learning is playful, interactive and focused on early cause-and-effect experiences.

Children explore technology through:

  • switches to operate toys and devices

  • touchscreens, interactive stories and simple apps

  • responding to sounds, videos and familiar voices

  • cause-and-effect resources such as talking books and simple programs

Mini Mash is a key tool for early computing skills, providing interactive, exploratory play in a safe digital environment. The emphasis at this stage is engagement, curiosity and early digital awareness. Progress is recorded through observation, photos and videos shared on Evisense and linked to individual outcomes.

Doing Pathway

On the Doing Pathway, Computing continues to be highly practical and is taught through topic-based learning within the Doing Curriculum. Children begin to recognise technology in the world around them and use digital tools for creative and functional purposes.

Pupils learn to:

  • use simple software and apps to draw, write or record

  • operate programmable toys such as Beebots

  • take photos or videos

  • explore patterns, instructions and simple coding

  • begin to understand online safety

Topics such as Me & My Community, Buildings, Night & Day, Animals and All Around the World provide real and relevant contexts for using technology. Mini Mash and simple coding tools support children to experiment, solve problems and make choices, helping them develop independence and confidence.

Every step of digital learning is celebrated—from selecting a tool, to pressing a switch independently, to completing a simple sequence on a programmable toy. Progress is evidenced through Evisense and linked to EHCP outcomes and target plans.

Thinking Pathway

On the Thinking Pathway, pupils receive discrete weekly Computing lessons, supported by Purple Mash and aligned with National Curriculum expectations. Lessons develop technical knowledge, creativity and problem-solving while keeping digital safety at the centre of learning.

Pupils learn to:

  • understand algorithms and create simple programs

  • debug errors and use logical reasoning

  • combine software to create digital content

  • use search technologies and networks

  • stay safe and act responsibly online

Children design animations, games, music, presentations and websites using age-appropriate tools. They explore coding, data handling, and digital media while developing independence and pride in their work.

Assessment is ongoing, using questioning, discussion, practical tasks and work completed in Purple Mash or topic books. Feedback is immediate, verbal and supportive to ensure children understand next steps.

Across all three pathways, Computing at Cribden House:

  • promotes independence, creativity and problem-solving

  • develops communication through digital tools and assistive technology

  • teaches online safety and digital citizenship

  • supports curiosity and investigation through hands-on exploration

  • celebrates every step of digital learning and achievement

Computing helps pupils make sense of the digital world, opening up opportunities to communicate, create and explore. It builds the skills they need to participate confidently in a technological society—now and as they grow into adulthood.

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