Digital Literacy in Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2)

At Key stage 1, we introduce children to digital literacy in a safe, structured and purposeful way. Digital Literacy means understanding how to use technology confidently, responsibly and effectively. Our digital literacy provision follows the National Centre for Computing Curriculum. The computing curriculum is structured around three core strands: Computer Science, Information Technology, and Digital Literacy.

Digital Literacy is woven throughtout all computing lessons and wider curriculum use of technology.

What does digital literacy

In years 1 and two, children begin to:

• Use tablets and laptops safely and independently
• Log in using simple passwords
• Navigate age-appropriate apps and websites
• Create digital content such as pictures, simple documents and recordings
• Save and retrieve their work
• Understand that information online must be used carefully

Online Safety (E-safety)

• Online safety is embedded in everything we do. Children learn:
• To keep personal information private
• To ask a trusted adult if something online makes them unsure or uncomfortable
• That not everything online is true
• How to be kind and respectful when communicating digitally

We use age appropriate scenarios, stories and discussions to help children understand how to stay safe online.

Creativity and Expression

• Digital literacy in KS1 is not just about using devices - it is about creating with them. Children have opportunities to:
• Draw and design digitally
• Record audio and video
• Create simple presentations
• Combine text and images
• Begin understanding that digital content is created by people

This support communication skills, storytelling and cross-curricular learning.

Building Skills for the future

• Digital literacy supports:
• Problem-solving
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Early critical thinking
• Independence

These early experiences prepare children for more advanced computing, research and digital responsibility as the move into key stage 2.

Working in partnership with families

• We encourage families to:
• Talk about online experiences at home
• Use parental controls where appropriate
• Reinforce key safety messages
• Model positive and balanced technology use

Together, we help children develop the knowledge and habits they need to thrive in a digital world.

How Digital Literacy links to the NCCE curriculum

In line with the NCCE framework pupils learn to:

• Use technology safely and respectfully
• Keep personal information private
• Recongnise common uses of information technology beyond school
• Identify where to go for help and support online
• Understand simple rules for online behaviour

Children explore real-life scenarios to help them understand online safety in practical and age-appropriate ways.