Alternative Software for Teach Computing Primary Units

(Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay)

I get asked by schools all the time for suggestions of alternative software; sometimes schools don’t have the right operating system or hardware; sometimes software is blocked by their academy or trust (it happens!) or sometimes pupils just don’t get on with the official software suggested!

So, I’ve created a spreadsheet that you can all add your suggestions to. I really hope that is helpful.

There needs to be some rules though! Please only add software if you have used it in your school and you are sure it works (don’t just google alternatives, they may be rubbish!). Secondly, please add a link in if you can (alt & return gives you a new line inside a spreadsheet cell) and if necessary, tell us if there is a subscription or log in required. Please also avoid software that has an age limit, as we don’t want to encourage teachers and pupils to break the rules.

I’ve put the official software (mentioned in the Teacher Guide) in the first row, so you know what was originally intended.

Let’s help each other out, spread the love and enable computing in our schools to be the best it can be!

Alternative software for KS1 and KS2 Teach Computing Curriculum units

Note: if you use alternative software, you may of course need to adapt the planning/ slides as they will contain screenshots and instructions for the original software intended. If you have already adapted the planning, then please add a link to it if you’re happy to share!! (G Drive link works best!)

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If you found this blog helpful, why not buy Phil a coffee!!

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If you’re going to use this idea and would like to donate some money, please complete the form below. Thanks!