Design and Technology

Intent

We want pupils at Pembury to be designers; to build a community of critical thinkers and problem solvers who will be able to innovate in our rapidly changing global society. We will equip children to face any challenge, by giving them opportunities to learn and apply a range of practical skills. This includes life skills and experiences in structures, mechanisms, cooking and nutrition and textiles.

Design and Technology is an inspiring and practical subject which utilises creativity and imagination. The ultimate goal of this subject is that pupils design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, linked with the topic that is being taught. It is truly cross-curricular, drawing on maths, science, computing and art. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, pupils develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world. The children at Pembury Primary School should be aware of the importance of technology in the world around them, and how it affects day to day life. They should be given the opportunity to build and apply their knowledge, understanding and skills to produce high-quality products. They will understand and apply principles of nutrition and learn how to cook. High quality design and technology education makes an essential contribution to the creativity, culture, wealth and well-being of the nation.

Implementation

Our Design and Technology curriculum is informed by the National Curriculum and delivered through the Cornerstones scheme of learning which develops children’s designing, planning, making and evaluating skills. Each project is based around a focus of structures, mechanisms, cooking and nutrition and textiles.

Links are made to electronic systems and IT as well as the science curriculum. For many projects, further links are made to Driver Projects in order for children have a meaningful context for learning. Children will experience a variety of Design and Technology projects throughout each year – with at least one project per year group linked to cooking and nutrition.

All projects follow a structure where children are introduced to key concepts and build up knowledge and skills over time, with a clear progression across the school. There are focused, practical tasks to help children gain the knowledge and skills that they will need to independently access a final task. Children throughout the school design, make, test and evaluate their products to match specific design criteria and ensure they fit their purpose. Children also learn the importance of working hygienically and safely.

Impact

Children will:

• Design and create a wide variety of projects based on a brief
• Explore concepts of engineering, for example when designing and building bridges
• Draw upon the knowledge and expertise of designers from across the school community and beyond
• Learn skills for life within structures, mechanisms, cooking and nutrition and textiles.