AIMS

The national curriculum for design and technology aims to ensure that all 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 of 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

TEACHING METHODS

Designing and making are at the heart of our DT curriculum. Children learn to make products that are purposeful and creative.

Children look at existing products and think about how they are made and how they work. They are then taught the skills they need to make their own products, including how to use the appropriate tools safely and accurately. After this they will have time to design and make their product, making sure it fits the specification they have been set and adapting as they go. Finally, their finished product is evaluated, enabling children to think about how it could be improved and compare their work to others.

The focus of a DT unit of work is usually topic based or linked to another area of learning, to ensure there is a meaningful context for the children.

Every year the children will have the opportunity to learn how to cook and consider nutrition and healthy eating habits. These dishes are savoury and, where possible, used locally sourced products.

HOW CHILDREN LEARN IN DT

Design threshold concepts:

• Master practical skills

  This concept involves developing the skills needed to make high quality products (we have highlighted a range of skills but they may be added to or changed as appropriate for your school).

• Design, make, evaluate and improve

  This concept involves developing the process of design thinking and seeing design as a process.

• Take inspiration from design throughout history

  This concept involves appreciating the design process that has influenced the products we use in everyday life.

Essential characteristics of Wateringbury designers:

• Significant levels of originality and the willingness to take creative risks to produce innovative ideas and prototypes.

• An excellent attitude to learning and independent working.

• The ability to use time efficiently and work constructively and productively with others.

• The ability to carry out thorough research, show initiative and ask questions to develop an exceptionally detailed knowledge of users’ needs.

• The ability to act as responsible designers and makers, working ethically, using finite materials carefully and working safely.

• A thorough knowledge of which tools, equipment and materials to use to make their products.

• The ability to apply mathematical knowledge.

• The ability to manage risks exceptionally well to manufacture products safely and hygienically.

• A passion for the subject and knowledge of, up-to-date technological innovations in materials, products and systems.