At NHP, pupils enjoy a creative and progressive computing and digital literacy curriculum that equips them with essential skills for an increasingly digital world.
Computing
Our curriculum begins with foundational skills, such as simple algorithms taught offline and online through tools like Beebots and iPads. Pupils explore image and video editing and progress through middle school with block coding on platforms like Scratch Jr. and MakeCode Arcade, alongside simple data processing. Computational thinking is woven throughout the curriculum, helping pupils develop skills like problem decomposition and pattern recognition. In the upper school, students tackle more advanced topics, including game design in block code, 3D computer-aided design, Python programming, binary systems, and the history of computing.
Digital Literacy
Digital literacy is a core focus across the school with separate lessons for the KS1 and KS2 students. Pupils learn how computers work, how to navigate essential software like Microsoft Office and Teams, and engage in lessons on e-safety. Metacognitive tools are introduced to encourage pupils to plan, monitor, and evaluate their use of technology effectively. Older pupils deepen their understanding of topics such as artificial intelligence, exploring how it influences their world. Lessons often link to PSHE, covering critical discussions on online safety, cyberbullying, media balance, social media, safe gaming, and e-commerce.
Enrichment and Competitions
Pupils participate in challenges like the Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge and the Oxford University Computing Challenge, achieving notable success. A recent partnership with Sway AI has provided valuable insights into social media and AI, and two of our pupils have been invited to join an international workshop looking at these topics. We also collaborate with Blueshift to offer exciting extracurricular clubs in areas such as music technology, LEGO robotics, and JavaScript coding.
