At Pownall Hall School, Computing is about far more than learning how to use technology. It is about understanding how systems work, how ideas are built, and how digital tools shape the world our children are growing into.
Our Computing and Digital Literacy curriculum develops confident, capable thinkers who can navigate technology with purpose, creativity and care. Children learn not just what to use, but why and how, building skills that support problem-solving, logic, communication and ethical decision-making.
Technology is used thoughtfully and intentionally. It enhances learning across the curriculum while developing independence, adaptability and confidence. Children leave Pownall prepared not simply for senior school, but for a future where digital understanding will be essential in almost every field.
Mr Phil Gregory
PGCE specialising in IT and Computing | Qualified Apple Teacher | National STEM Centre Facilitator
Phil Gregory leads Computing and Digital Literacy across the school, bringing a depth of experience from both the classroom and the wider education sector.
After completing his PGCE at Edge Hill University with a specialism in Computing, Phil went on to become a Qualified Apple Teacher and National STEM Centre Facilitator. His career has included working as an education consultant in multiple countries, supporting schools in developing innovative, engaging and meaningful approaches to STEM education.
At Pownall, Phil is passionate about helping children understand how technology works, how to think logically and how to apply digital skills creatively and responsibly. His lessons encourage curiosity, independence and confidence, ensuring children are equipped not just for today’s technology, but for the rapidly changing digital world ahead.
1:1
Devices used for computing lessons
Rec–F6
Specialist Computing provision
60+
Chromebooks and iPads in school
1
Qualified Apple Teacher
In the Early Years, Computing begins with exploration, curiosity and play. Children develop early technological understanding through hands-on experiences with mechanical toys, construction resources and cause-and-effect activities.
As they progress into Kindergarten and Reception, children are gently introduced to digital tools in a purposeful way. They use iPads to take photographs, document their learning and explore creative applications. Weekly Computing sessions in Reception introduce basic skills such as controlling a cursor, typing names and experimenting with simple coding concepts.
At this stage, the focus is on confidence, language, curiosity and understanding how technology fits into everyday life, rather than screen time for its own sake.
In Pre-Prep, children build secure foundations in digital literacy through weekly specialist-led lessons. They learn how to navigate devices confidently, create and manage passwords, collaborate digitally and understand how technology supports learning.
Lessons blend creativity and structure. Children explore digital art, music composition and simple design projects, while also learning how to stay safe online and make responsible choices in digital spaces.
Problem-solving, teamwork and communication are woven into every lesson. By the end of Pre-Prep, pupils are confident users of technology, able to apply their skills independently and thoughtfully across subjects.
In Prep, Computing becomes increasingly sophisticated and purposeful. Lessons are designed to develop logical thinking, creativity and resilience, alongside strong technical skills.
Children work with a wide range of equipment, including Chromebooks, iPads and a dedicated computer suite, as well as physical computing tools such as Microbits and Makey Makey boards. These resources allow pupils to explore coding, systems thinking and interactive design in a practical, engaging way.
Computing is fully integrated across the curriculum. Pupils use digital tools to enhance learning in subjects such as History and Geography, for example through research, presentation design and tools such as Google Earth.
Alongside curriculum lessons, the Computing Club is one of the most popular clubs at Pownall, offering further opportunities for creativity, collaboration and independent exploration.
Throughout Prep, children are encouraged to think critically about technology, understand its impact and use it with confidence and responsibility. They leave Pownall well-prepared for senior school Computing and digitally confident for the world beyond
Our aim is not to produce children who simply keep up with technology, but young people who understand it, question it and use it well.
Through Computing and Digital Literacy at Pownall Hall School, pupils develop skills that will support them throughout senior school, higher education and the future workplace, whatever shape that may take.
