Design and Technology

Mission Statement

To give the opportunity to learn about how things work in the designed and made world. Children will develop their knowledge and understanding through evaluation and research, and combine design and making skills to produce creative, functional, quality products for identified purposes and users.

Intent

At Plantation Primary School, our Design and Technology curriculum aims to inspire our children to become innovative and resourceful problem-solvers who can engage with the ever-changing world. We aim to foster a deep understanding of the design process, enabling children to research, plan, create, and evaluate products effectively. We intend to develop the skills, knowledge, and understanding necessary for our children to design and make high-quality prototypes and products for a wide range of users. We encourage creativity and innovation, allowing children to explore a wide range of materials, tools, and techniques. Our children will develop problem-solving skills and resilience through challenging projects that require critical thinking and problem solving. Our curriculum promotes an awareness of the impact of DT on daily life and the wider world.

Implementation

Our DT curriculum is implemented through a well-structured progressive curriculum that ensures coverage of key skills and knowledge. Each year group undertakes projects that build on previous knowledge and skills, ensuring a coherent progression from Early Years through to Key Stage 2. 

DT is taught in dedicated DT time consisting of weekly blocks, three times a year to allow children time to research, plan, create, modify and evaluate. In each of these units of work, clear end points pinpoint the key knowledge and skills necessary to succeed.  Topics are chosen to be engaging and relevant, ranging from food technology to creating simple mechanical systems and exploring textiles.

Projects are structured to allow for both individual and collaborative work, promoting teamwork and communication skills. During the units of work, teachers provide guidance and support throughout the design process, emphasizing the importance of experimentation and reflection. Ongoing formative assessment during projects help teachers provide immediate feedback and support, ensuring children stay on track and understand key concepts. As the children progress through the curriculum, they are exposed to a variety of tools, learning how to use each one safely. 

Impact

The impact of our DT curriculum is evident in the enthusiasm and confidence with which our children approach design challenges. They develop a strong foundation of practical skills, along with the ability to think creatively and critically. Our children demonstrate a thorough understanding of the design process, from initial ideas and planning to creating and evaluating their final products.

They are equipped with valuable skills for the future, fostering a lifelong appreciation for innovation and problem-solving as well as the role of design and technology in the world around them.

They develop transferable skills such as critical thinking, resilience, and adaptability, which are valuable both in and out of the classroom. Design and Technology lessons promote inclusivity and diversity, allowing children to express themselves creatively regardless of their background or abilities. The impact of our DT curriculum is measured and monitored through lesson visits and observations, pupil interviews and book looks.