“Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” – Steve Jobs
INTENT
To support our teaching of Design and Technology (D&T), we use The Design and Technology Association’s– ‘Projects on a Page’.
This quality scheme provides opportunities for children to develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world.
Our ultimate goal is to foster a love for design and innovation while empowering children to become confident, resourceful individuals who can approach problems creatively.
IMPLEMENTATION
Through D&T, children learn important key concepts such as designing, planning, making, and evaluating. Lessons are carefully structured to ensure progression of these concepts through both theoretical and practical learning.
Throughout KS1 and KS2, children’s skills and knowledge in design, structures, mechanisms and electrical control is developed using a range of materials including: wood, textiles, plastic and food. In food technology, children benefit from a dedicated kitchen to develop a love of cooking, whilst learning and practising important culinary skills. In foundation stage and KS1, cooking and woodwork form part of the daily activities through continuous provision.
Practical activities are also paired with lessons on health, safety, and the environmental impact of products. Learning is linked to other curriculum subjects such as science, maths and art to provide a holistic learning experience, enriching children’s understanding and application of skills.
St. Finian’s STEAM Club: We have our own STEAM club after school every Friday (science, technology, engineering, art and maths) led by a parent scientist. Groups of children in upper KS2 work towards an exciting design project each half term. Projects include planning, constructing and evaluating products. Some examples include- building rockets, go-karts and light sabres. We also have a 3D printer permanently located in our Art room for specific project work.
IMPACT
The impact of our D&T curriculum is evident in the confidence, collaborative and problem-solving skills that our children develop. By the time they leave us in Year 6, they will have experienced the full design process, from idea conception to finished product, and have a deeper understanding of technology's role in society. They will be able to evaluate their work, learning to appreciate and improve through constructive feedback. Most importantly, they will carry with them the knowledge and passion to continue exploring creative solutions in their future education and lives.