Design Technology

Intent statement for Design Technology

Design and technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Using creativity and imagination, pupils design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. They acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, they develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world. High-quality design and technology education makes an essential contribution to the creativity, culture, wealth and well-being of the nation.

Implementation of Design and Technology

Design and Technology  is taught through a Project based curriculum, where the process of research, design, make and evaluate  is explicitly taught with some links to other subjects and skills.  This approach provides a relevant, engaging, Knowledge and skills based projects that engage, inspires and challenges all children whilst raising standards in Foundation subjects.

Each project begins with a research based task where children engage in practical activities to look at current products and discuss their purpose, use and effectiveness. Children then begin a process of researching, designing, making and then evaluating their own product.

Outcomes of work are regularly monitored to ensure that they reflect a secure understanding  of the key identified skills and knowledge. It will involve cooperative group work, individual work and class teaching. The use of ‘wow’ experiences through initial research and hands on discovery  all contribute to the teaching of DT.

Within this structure:

  • Groups are usually of mixed ability.
  • Work is differentiated to meet the needs of those in the class.
  • Relevant discussion is encouraged.
  • Groups are encouraged to communicate their findings in a variety of ways.

The emphasis in our teaching of DT is on integrated learning, linking the subject with all other areas of the curriculum where possible. Our focussed projects, develops a range of study skills allowing children to increasingly take control of their own learning as they progress through the key stages.

To achieve this we develop:

  • Information handling skills, including the use of a wide range of source materials are explicitly taught.
  • ICT will be used to develop children’s research skills at all stages of development.
  • Careful observation is fostered.
  • Good quality resources are used to support learning.

Impact in Design and Technology

Through the high quality teaching of DT taking place in our school and a range of monitoring, we will confidently see the impact of DT in our school in different ways.

  • Through pupil voice children will be able to demonstrate the skills and knowledge they have acquired and the areas of the subject they enjoy or would like to study.
  • Children will be engaged in DT lessons and want to find out more. Children will complete research independently through projects and further their own enjoyment about the subject or project.
  • Through floor books, Children’s work will show that a range of projects are being covered, cross curricular links are made where possible and differentiated work set as appropriate. It will show children’s progression of knowledge and skills whilst all demonstrating children’s confidence and enthusiasm for their project, product and work.
  • The school environment will be DT rich through displays, resources, vocabulary we see in classes and around school.
  • As designers, researchers and product makers, children will learn skills from DT projects which will influence the life choices they make in the future.
  • Within Assessment. Through the floor books,  skills and knowledge can be seen and progression from EYFS to Y6 will be evident,
  • Children will show their learning journey and the progression made by ALL children throughout the project they have studied.

Reception – Food Technology

Year 1 – Food Technology

Year 3 – Food Technology

Year 4 – Food Technology

Year 5 – Food Technology

Year 6 – Food Technology