Design and Technology
Design and Technology at Ashley Down Primary School Aims (intent)
Design and Technology is an imaginative, inspiring and rigorous subject. Equipped with developing practical skills and knowledge, children use 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. Design and Technology gives children an opportunity to understand how they have the ability to make a positive contribution to the world, both now and in the future. We intend for all children to acquire appropriate subject knowledge, skills and understanding as set out in the National Curriculum. Developing children’s skills and knowledge in design, structures, mechanisms, electrical control and a range of materials, including food. Giving them the opportunities, responsibilities, and experiences, they need to be successful in later life.
What it looks like here (implementation)
Design and Technology is a crucial part of school life and learning and it is for this reason that as a school we are dedicated to the teaching and delivery of a high-quality Design and Technology curriculum. At Ashley Down, Design and Technology is implemented through:
• A well thought out, whole school, yearly overview of the DT curriculum which allows for progression across year groups in all areas of DT (textiles, mechanisms, structures, food and electrical systems)
• Well planned and resourced projects providing children with a hands-on and enriching experience
• A range of skills being taught ensuring that children are aware of health and safety issues related to the tasks undertaken
• Teachers being given ownership and flexibility to plan for Design and Technology; often teaching DT as a block of lessons to allow the time needed for the children to be critical, inventive and reflective on their work
• Each project from Year 1 to Year 6 addressing the principles of designing, making, and evaluating and incorporating relevant technical knowledge and understanding in relevant contexts.
Early Years Foundation Stage:
During the EYFS pupils explore and use a variety of media and materials through a combination of child initiated and adult directed activities. They have the opportunities to learn to:
• Use different media and materials to express their own ideas
• Use what they have learnt about media and materials in original ways, thinking about form, function and purpose
• Make plans and construct with a purpose in mind using a variety of resources and learning a range of joining techniques
• Develop skills to use simple tools and techniques appropriately, effectively and safely
• Select appropriate resources for a product and adapt their work where necessary
• Cook and prepare food adhering to good health and hygiene routines