Intent:

Through our DT curriculum, learners use their creativity and imagination to design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a wide variety of contexts.

We aim for all learners:

• To develop a curiosity about how things are made and how they work, as well as thinking creatively to problem solve and make products even better.
• To be able to consider their own and other's needs, wants and values within the designing and making process, ensuring their product has a purpose.
• To be equipped with the technical knowledge and vocabulary in relation to structural design, mechanical and electrical systems, textiles, food production and nutrition.
• To build and apply a repertoire of knowledge, understanding and skills in order to design and make high-quality prototypes and products for a wide range of users.
• To make connections and apply their knowledge of Mathematics, Science, Computing, and Art.
• to know how to take risks, develop new innovative designs and be reflective, evaluating their own work, as well as the design and work of others within school and the wider world.
• To understand and apply the principles of nutrition and learn how to cook.

Implementation:

Design and Technology learning in the Early Years

In Early Years, they will learn, through Expressive Arts and Design and Physical Development (fine motor skills), to:

• Use a range of small tools, including scissors, paintbrushes, cutlery and cooking utensils.
• Safely explore a variety of materials, tools and techniques, experimenting with colour, texture, form and function.
• Share their creations, explaining the process they have used.

There are also regular opportunities for children in the Early Years to develop knowledge of how to keep themselves healthy, including daily, structured snacktime.

Building on from Early Years

We have chosen to implement our DT curriculum using the planning, guidance and resources supplied through the scheme: PlanBee. We have chosen this scheme carefully because we feel it aligns with our intent and curriculum approach; it also meets the scope and ambition of the National Curriculum.

Our curriculum is progressive, providing opportunities for learners to revisit, build on and strengthen knowledge and skills they have previously learned. Learning is divided into units of textiles, structures, mechanical and electrical systems and nutrition/ food technology. Through each unit, learners also develop and apply the skills of investigating, designing, making and evaluating their products.

Design and Technology will be taught in all year groups, in blocks of approximately 6 lessons, three times a year – usually alternating with the teaching of Art and Design.