Purple Mash Computing Scheme of Work for Primary Schools

Looking for a primary computing scheme of work? The Purple Mash Computing Scheme gives primary schools everything they need to confidently teach Computing from EYFS to Year 6. Fully aligned to the UK National Curriculum, it covers Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy, with ready-to-use lesson plans, teaching resources, assessment tools and a clear progression of skills and knowledge.

That's why the Computing Scheme is September's Mash of the Month!

Each month we highlight a #MashoftheMonth, which focuses on a scheme, tool or application within Purple Mash and how it can be used within the classroom to support learning. During the month, if you share how you have used #MashoftheMonth, you will then be entered into a draw to win a 2Simple Goody Bag!

What does the Purple Mash Computing Scheme include?

The Purple Mash Computing Scheme is a complete computing scheme of work designed and created for primary schools. It covers all aspects of the computing curriculum across Early Years, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, with a clear progression of skills and knowledge through each year group.

The scheme includes:

Whether you're a computing lead or a classroom teacher with limited technical knowledge, the scheme offers everything needed to plan, teach and assess computing lessons with confidence.

How does the Purple Mash Computing Scheme cover the National Curriculum?

The scheme has three core strands: Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy, with much of Digital Literacy covered by the online safety scheme, 2BeSafe. Examples of what's covered in the computing scheme are:

Computer Science

• Creating and following instructions
• Coding
• Algorithms
• Robotics with Mai-Z Mousebot
• micro:bit
• Logo
• Game creation
• Networks
• Binary
• Python

Information Technology

• Creative tools: animation, music, art, 3D model design
• Collecting and presenting data
• Databases
• Touch typing
• Spreadsheets and word processing
• Concept mapping
• The internet
• Email
• Hardware and software
• AI
• Coding external devices
• 3D model design

Digital Literacy

Much of the Digital Literacy objectives are covered by Purple Mash's online safety scheme, 2BeSafe. This is included with Purple Mash, and contains 15-20 minute sessions which cover the eight areas set out in the Education for a Connected World Framework.

The aim of the sessions is to promote discussion, greater thinking and deeper reflection, and they are designed to be woven throughout the curriculum, and delivered on a whole-class basis.

Progression in Computing from EYFS to Year 6

Alongside access to Mini Mash a dedicated online learning space for younger learners, Purple Mash schools can also start EYFS pupils on their digital journey with activities in the Computing Scheme.

This includes using a mouse and developing mouse control skills, using a touchpad, finding keys on a keyboard.

➡️ In coding, children will progress from creating simple programs to using sequence, selection, repetition, and variables, as well as detecting errors and debugging programs. They also have the opportunity to program external devices and robots, like a micro:bit. Pupils can be further extended with the use of Python in Pieces, where they can begin learning the Python coding language.

➡️ When using digital tools and software, children begin using simple paint, story animation and music-making tools and progress to using databases, 3D modelling tools and the Purple Mash safe & secure email system, as well as industry-standard software such as Google Docs and Microsoft Excel.

➡️ In online safety, children start learning how to find information, behave online in positive ways, and what to do if they see something online that upsets them. They eventually progress onto learning about copyright, how to evaluate information they find online for reliability, to think critically about the information they share, and how to look after their mental and physical health.

Support for Computing Leaders

In addition to the Computing Scheme, Purple Mash users also get access to the Computing Leader's Toolkit. This includes examples and templates for a range of helpful documents:

• Guidance on evaluating computing standards
• Computing Leader Report
• Acceptable Use Agreements
• Action Plan
• Audit of Computing
• Budget Tool
• Guidance for Computing Policy
• Online Safety Policy Guidance

• Cyber Security Policy Guidance
• Remote Learning Policy
• Glossary of Online Safety Terminology
• Pupil and Parent Voice
• Self-Evaluation
• Staff Surveys
• Tips for Computing Leaders
• Digital & Technology Standards