At Houghton-on-the-Hill Primary School, we follow the Teach Computing Curriculum developed by the National Centre for Computing Education (NCCE). This curriculum provides a clear progression of knowledge and skills throughout the primary years and has been designed to ensure pupils gain a secure understanding of Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy.

Our curriculum allows pupils to:

• Understand how computers and digital systems work.
• Create digital content using a range of software and technologies.
• Develop programming and computational thinking skills.
• Collect, organise and interpret data.
• Become safe, responsible and respectful digital citizens.

Lessons are practical, engaging and designed to encourage children to explore, investigate and solve problems independently and collaboratively.

Online Safety

Online safety is a fundamental part of our computing curriculum and wider school culture.

From September 2026, every year group follows dedicated online safety units from Oak National Academy alongside the Teach Computing curriculum. These lessons help children develop the knowledge and understanding needed to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.

Children learn about:

• Keeping personal information safe.
• Healthy online relationships.
• Digital wellbeing.
• Cyberbullying.
• Media influence.
• Fake news and misinformation.
• Privacy and security.
• Responsible use of technology.
• Knowing when and how to seek help.

Our aim is to help pupils become informed, thoughtful and responsible digital citizens who can confidently enjoy the opportunities technology provides whilst understanding the associated risks.

Our SMART Rules

At Houghton, we promote safe and responsible use of technology through our SMART Rules:

These rules are regularly reinforced through lessons, assemblies and discussions throughout the year.

Online Safety Committee

We are proud to have an active Online Safety Committee made up of representatives from Years 1 to 6.

These pupils play an important role in promoting online safety across our school. Committee members meet regularly to discuss current online safety issues, raise awareness amongst their peers and help to share important messages throughout the school community.

The committee supports online safety by:

• Promoting our SMART Rules.
• Contributing ideas for online safety initiatives.
• Helping deliver key messages to classes.
• Supporting Safer Internet Day activities.
• Taking part in assemblies and awareness campaigns.
• Discussing new and emerging technologies.

Through these opportunities, pupils develop leadership skills whilst helping to create a safer and more informed digital community.                          

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Technology is constantly evolving, and we believe it is important that pupils develop an awareness of the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies.

During the last two academic years, our Online Safety Committee has explored the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education and wider society. Through discussions, assemblies and parent communications, we have considered both the benefits and potential risks of AI tools.

Children are encouraged to think critically about AI-generated content and develop an understanding of how technology can be used safely, responsibly and ethically.

Working with Parents and Carers

Keeping children safe online is a shared responsibility between school and home.

Throughout the year, we aim to provide information and guidance for parents and carers on current online safety issues and emerging technologies. We regularly share advice, resources and updates to help families support safe and positive technology use at home.

By working together, we can help children develop the skills and confidence needed to thrive in today's digital world.

Useful Links

Teach Computing: https://teachcomputing.org

Oak National Academy: https://www.thenational.academy

Childnet: https://www.childnet.com

CEOP Safety Centre: https://www.ceop.police.uk

Internet Matters: https://www.internetmatters.org

National Online Safety: https://nationalonlinesafety.com