Design Technology

In DT, pupils are given opportunities to experiment and explore in the creation of models and structures. 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. Pupils design, make and evaluate. They develop a wide range of relevant technical knowledge and are given opportunities to see how this applies to the world of work.

Intent

At Whitwell Primary School, we promote creativity and provide a rich and balanced curriculum which prepares children for life beyond primary education. Giving children access to a broad and engaging Design and Technology curriculum helps children to develop skills and knowledge in design and allows them to see the world from a different viewpoint.

We encourage 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. DT is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. It can be found in many of the objects children use each day and is a part of children’s immediate experiences. It encourages children to learn to think and intervene creatively to solve problems both as individuals and as members of a team.

Implementation

Through a variety of creative and practical activities, we teach the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to engage in the process of designing and making. The children work in a range of relevant contexts (for example home, school, leisure, culture, enterprise and the wider environment).

Our curriculum allows children to explore working with a range of materials, including food and electrical controls. Whitwell Primary School bases its DT curriculum on the PlanBee foundations.  Giving concise, stimulating and informative DT resources and lessons to spark our children’s imaginations and creativity.

Impact

In DT, we ensure children 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 all children. 

Impact of the Curriculum is monitored through constructive scrutiny of planning, monitoring of books and displays, lesson learning walks, discussions with teaching staff and parents and pupil voice. Children’s creative success is celebrated throughout the school through displays and through regular sharing assemblies where children present their learning and its outcomes to the rest of the school.