Design and Technology
Statement of intent for the Design Technology curriculum
The Design and Technology curriculum, an inspiring, practical and valuable learning experience where pupils are encouraged to design, make and evaluate products, based on the National Curriculum for Key Stages 1 and 2 and Development Matters in the Early Years Foundation Stage (Exploring and using media and materials; Technology; Moving and handling; Health and self-care). Pupils participate in a variety of design experiences through which they develop their creativity and resilience in a safe, stimulating environment. They have access to lessons and wider opportunities which allow them to create products that solve real and relevant problems affecting themselves, their peers, their local community and the wider world.
Skills are taught progressively to ensure that all pupils are able to develop as they move through the school from Nursery, towards EYFS, KS1 and KS2 end points. Pupils are taught to combine their design skills with knowledge and understanding, making products that have a purpose. Evaluating the outcomes combined with the development of pupils' technical knowledge, are an integral part of the design process and ensures pupils adapt and improve their product. These are key skills which encourages resilience a key skill that they will need throughout their life.
The activities have been carefully and purposely selected to ensure strong links to the teaching of sustainability and global goals. All year groups look at their local environment and how they can improve it, or have the opportunity to study an inspirational local designer. Alongside this, the cooking and nutrition aspect of the curriculum gives pupils the opportunity to explore a well-balanced diet and alternative sustainable, healthy diets. In all year groups pupils' interests are captured through thematic learning, ensuring that links are made in a cross-curricular way, giving pupils motivation and meaning for their learning. Resources are adapted, when necessary, to ensure SEND and disadvantaged pupils can access all aspects of the same curriculum.
The Design and Technology curriculum allows pupils to apply the knowledge and skills learned in other subjects, particularly Mathematics, Science and Art and Design. Lessons also include opportunities for age appropriate reading, for example, research sources of information regarding global goals, related news articles and high quality reference material in our school library.