Design Technology

Statement

Intent

Through our curriculum here at Stanhope Primary we aim to excite and ignite our children’s interest in Design and Technology and prepare them to take part in the development of a rapidly changing world. Our curriculum will combine skills, knowledge, concepts and values which will enable our children to tackle real life problems. Through a variety of creative and practical activities, pupils are taught the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to engage in a process of designing and making. In addition to this our children will acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art.

In conjunction with the National Curriculum our Design Technology Curriculum aims to ensure that all our pupils:

• Develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world.
• Build and apply a repertoire ok knowledge, understanding and skills in order to design and make high-quality prototypes and products for a wide range of users.
• Critique, evaluate and test their ideas and products and the work of others.
• Understand and apply the principles of nutrition and learn how to cook.

Implementation

Our long term plan provides a rich and inspiring curriculum for all children from EYFS to year 6. Staff at school follow the Plan Bee Scheme of work alongside the National Curriculum which ensures a well-structured progression of Design Technology knowledge and skills throughout the school. Design Technology is taught on a half termly basis which alternates with Art. Children are given opportunities to experience a range of design and technology experiences through the curriculum, visitors into school and organised visits. They learn how to cook healthy food and the basics of nutrition not only through the Design Technology Curriculum but also through PE and PSHE. All staff look for opportunities to develop cross curricular links with other subjects and develop skills through this approach.  Children in the Early Years are encouraged to explore and use a range of media and materials whilst also developing their creativity, imagination and critical thinking. This is the foundation on which learning is developed throughout the school.

Impact

We measure the impact of our design and technology curriculum with various formative methods of assessment including self and peer assessment following the designing process. Children then assess their own pieces of work and that of others. They appraise, evaluate and reflect on their designs, they are able to talk about how they have designed, developed and chosen particular materials and products. Our vision is for our children to have a love of Design Technology and develop their creative, design and making skills. Pupil voice is an important part of our assessment allowing us to continually reflect upon our Design Technology curriculum. Summative assessments take place termly against National Curriculum expectations.