This Computing scheme of work video introduces children to Scratch, a creative platform for coding simple games, stories and animations. In this lesson, pupils begin by exploring the interface through guided tinkering—building confidence with code through hands-on investigation.

The video introduces:

• The Scratch interface, including the stage, sprite area, block palette and script area

• Drag-and-drop coding using coloured code blocks, focusing on how to connect them to create working sequences

• Sprites, explaining how characters (like the default cat) can be replaced or personalised

• The sprite library’s Letters tab, where children can select the first letter of their name to use as their sprite

• Event blocks, especially when green flag clicked, which acts as the ‘start’ signal for any code

• How blocks are added to form instructions and how clicking the green flag runs the sequence

Pupils are encouraged to experiment—changing sprites, testing blocks and observing what happens. Mistakes are part of the process, reinforcing the idea that debugging is a natural step in learning to code.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Year 3 Programming: Scratch unit. It prepares children for future programming activities by helping them feel confident navigating Scratch and understanding its basic functions.

See more of our Year 3 Computing scheme of work.

Computing, Year 3, Programming: Scratch, Lesson 1: Tinkering with Scratch.