Coding & Technology
St Joseph’s School has become a Centre of Excellence for Robotics, and we are extremely proud of all the physical coding lessons and clubs that are taking place in our school. Please take a moment to watch the video to gain insight into what makes St Joseph’s a 21st-century school where we provide our children with the opportunity to experience hands-on learning with robots.
//www.youtube.com/embed/_B7D8YhjZgM#t=0.5
Why Technology Matters at St Joseph’s
At St Joseph’s Catholic School, technology is used thoughtfully and purposefully to support learning, creativity, and wellbeing. Our aim is not simply to teach children how to use devices, but to help them become confident, responsible, and creative digital citizens.
From Nursery to Year 6, children are given opportunities to explore technology in ways that are safe, engaging, and meaningful — always rooted in our school values.
Preparing Children for the World They Are Growing Up In
Technology is part of everyday life. By introducing digital skills early, we help children to:
Think logically and solve problems
Be creative and express ideas in new ways
Develop resilience and perseverance
Work collaboratively and communicate confidently
At St Joseph’s, technology supports learning across the curriculum, from storytelling and music to science, maths, and design.
Learning Through Creativity, Not Screens Alone
Technology at St Joseph’s is hands-on and creative.
Children learn through:
- Robotics and programming, helping them understand how things work
- Creative coding, where imagination and problem-solving go hand in hand
- Digital media, including audio, video, and podcasting
- Physical computing, using floor robots and LEGO to bring learning to life
Screen time is always purposeful, balanced, and age-appropriate.
Strong Foundations from Early Years
Our computing journey begins in EYFS, where children:
- Explore cause and effect
- Learn to follow and give simple instructions
- Develop early problem-solving skills
- Use technology as a tool for play and creativity
These early experiences build confidence and curiosity, setting strong foundations for later learning.
Building Skills Year by Year
As children move through the school, they:
- Use robots and coding tools across all year groups
- Learn to create and debug simple programs
- Develop digital literacy and online research skills
- Are introduced to Python coding in Year 6, giving them a strong transition into secondary school
Technology is carefully planned so skills build progressively each year.
Online Safety at the Heart of Everything We Do
Keeping children safe online is a priority at St Joseph’s.
We teach children how to:
- Stay safe and respectful online
- Understand privacy and digital footprints
- Make responsible choices
- Know where to go for help
/i/video/CS_Schools__v3_.mp4
We are proud to be a Common Sense Media School, recognised for our commitment to high-quality digital citizenship and online safety education.
Giving Children a Voice Through Technology
Technology allows children to share their ideas and be heard.
Pupils take part in:
- Creating podcasts
- Recording video and audio projects
- Digital storytelling
- School news and creative media
Our Digital Leaders support technology across the school, developing leadership, confidence, and responsibility.
Enrichment Beyond the Classroom
Children who want to explore technology further can take part in:
- Robotics Club
- Creative Coding Club
- Creative Club
- Competitions and challenges, including Esports events
These opportunities help children discover new interests and talents in a supportive environment.
Supporting Staff to Support Children
Our staff receive ongoing training and support so that technology is used confidently and effectively in the classroom. We also work with trusted external partners to ensure our approach remains up to date and safe.
A Thoughtful, Balanced Approach
At St Joseph’s, technology is:
- Used to enhance learning, not replace it
- Carefully chosen and age-appropriate
- Embedded across the curriculum
- Guided by strong safeguarding and online safety principles
Our focus is always on what is best for the child.
Working Together with Families and Local Authorities
We believe that educating children about technology works best when schools and families work together. We share guidance, resources, and advice with parents to help support children’s digital lives at home.
