Design Technology

Our aims for design technology

Design and Technology is an inspiring and practical subject. It encourages children to learn to think creatively, to solve problems both as individuals and as members of a team. We encourage our children to use their creativity and imagination to design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. We aim to, wherever possible, link work to other disciplines such as mathematics, science, computing and art. Through evaluation of past and present design and technology, the children develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world. In a rapidly changing way of living, D&T encourages our children to become increasingly resilient innovators and risk-takers.

How we teach design technology

We follow the Kapow Design and Technology curriculum that builds on previous learning and provides both support and challenge for learners. Our Design and Technology scheme ensures a progression of skills. Lessons are taught in a half termly block so that children’s learning is focused throughout each unit of work.

All projects follow the “design, make and evaluate” cycle. To give meaning to the children’s design process, design projects are rooted in real life, using relevant contexts. While making, children are given choice and a range of tools and materials to choose from. In the evaluation stage, the children learn to evaluate their own products against design criteria. Embedded in each of these steps is technical knowledge and vocabulary.

Our children as designers

Through the teaching of Design and Technology our children learn how to take risks; becoming more 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.