Intent
At Riverside Primary School we teach Computing using Purple Mash scheme of learning. The aim of Computing is to teach children how to use technology in a range of ways and to understand how to use technology in a safe way. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology and can support learning across these subjects. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. We aim to ensure that all of our children become digitally literate and able to make informed choices in a digital world. The use of technology is now essential in many aspects of life and children need to be equipped with the skills to embrace emerging technology and to use it efficiently. We ensure that all children understand how to use the internet safely and how to safeguard their own personal data when using websites and apps. We have invested in a range of computers and devices including PC’s, laptops, ipads.
Implementation
At Riverside Primary School, every child has an hour of Computing each week and this is delivered in a specific built Computing suite within the school. Pupils are also able to access Computing through iPad and laptops in their classrooms.
At Riverside we use Purple Mash and through the extensive long, medium, step-by-step short-term planning, we are able to meet the requirements of the national curriculum for computing. This ensures that skills and knowledge are built on year by year and sequenced appropriately to maximise learning for all children. Children gain experience of the 3 fundamental areas of computing (computer science, digital literacy, and information technology).
With Computing and technology becoming an increasing part in the worlds future we intend to develop pupils’ understanding of the concepts, practices and perspectives that underpin programming and other aspects of computer science, while providing ample opportunity for creative, collaborative project work in which pupils can acquire the information technology skills they will need. Purple Mash also helps pupils to understand the implications of technology for individuals and society as they become digitally literate.
Our children in Early Years provision are also exposed to the understanding of internet safety as they explore the world around them and how technology is an everyday part of their learning and understanding of the world.
Impact
By the end of each key stage, pupils are expected to know, apply and understand the different areas of the national curriculum. At Riverside Primary School we aim for the children to be digitally literate and able to join the rest of the world on its digital platform. They will be equipped, not only with the skills and knowledge to use technology effectively and for their own benefit, but more importantly – safely. The biggest impact we want on our children is that they understand the consequences of using the internet and that they are also aware of how to keep themselves safe online. We use a mixture of interim and summative assessment (based on the objectives in the 2014 National Curriculum) to determine children’s understanding and progression in computing. This information is used to feed into teachers’ future planning, teachers are able to revisit misconceptions and knowledge gaps in computing when teaching other curriculum areas. This supports varied paces of learning and ensures all pupils make good progress.
What is Purple Mash?
Purple Mash is an online learning platform created by 2Simple, designed to make computing fun, creative, and accessible for all children.
It helps pupils learn key computing skills — from using technology safely to coding their own games — in an engaging, age-appropriate way.
What is the Purple Mash Computing Scheme of Work?
The Purple Mash Computing Scheme of Work is a complete, structured programme that supports teachers to deliver the Computing curriculum for Primary Schools in line with the National Curriculum for England.
It provides a clear sequence of lessons and activities that build children’s skills year by year, covering all the main areas of computing.
How It Works
The scheme is divided into three main strands of computing:
- 🧠 Computer Science
- Understanding how computers and coding work
- Writing and debugging simple programs
- Learning about algorithms, sequences, and logic
- 💼 Information Technology
- Using technology for practical purposes
- Creating digital content such as documents, art, music, and presentations
- Understanding how to collect, store, and present data
- 🌍 Digital Literacy
- Learning how to use technology safely and responsibly
- Understanding online safety and digital well-being
- Recognising what information should be kept private
Each year group builds on what they’ve learned before, ensuring that children’s knowledge develops in small, logical steps.
Every lesson includes clear objectives, interactive tasks, and self-assessment tools so pupils can see their progress.
Why It’s Helpful for Children
The Purple Mash scheme helps children:
- Gain confidence in using computers, tablets, and online tools
- Develop creativity by designing, making, and sharing their own digital work
- Think logically and solve problems through coding and computational thinking
- Understand online safety, helping them become responsible digital citizens
Lessons are hands-on, exciting, and encourage children to explore ideas through games, animations, and projects.
How Parents Can Support at Home
You can help your child by:
- Exploring Purple Mash activities together at home
- Talking about staying safe online and what to do if something doesn’t feel right
- Encouraging creativity — making digital art, coding games, or writing stories
- Asking them to explain what they’re learning in computing