Design and Technology
Curriculum intent:
D&T is a highly valued subject and is intrinsically woven throughout our wider curriculum, demonstrating our commitment to the development of D&T skills and knowledge through the many and wide-ranging opportunities offered by the D&T. D&T should stimulate children’s creativity and imagination, thus providing a unique way of understanding the world. Children are given the opportunity to design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of topics.
They acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Children develop practical ability to use tools and media effectively and develop techniques, skills and processes. They should know how D&T both reflect and shape our history and contribute to the culture, creativity and wealth of our nation.
What does learning look like at our school?
- Build and apply knowledge, understanding and skills 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.
- Develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world
How can families support at home?
Encourage practical making
- Keep a box of recyclable materials (cardboard, plastic bottles, tubes, fabric scraps) for model-making.
- Let your child use safe tools, such as child-safe scissors, rulers, glue, and tape.
- Encourage them to design and build simple projects, such as bridges, vehicles, or bird feeders.
Cook together
Cooking is an excellent DT activity because it develops:
- Measuring and weighing skills.
- Following instructions.
- Food preparation and hygiene.
- Understanding nutrition.
- Evaluating what works well and what could be improved.
🔧 Design & Technology – Useful Websites
- James Dyson Foundation
Fun engineering challenges that encourage children to design, build, test and improve their ideas using everyday materials. - BBC Bitesize – Design & Technology
Child-friendly videos, information and activities covering materials, structures, mechanisms and designing. - STEM Learning
Practical activities that encourage children to investigate, design, build, experiment and solve problems. - Design Museum – Young People
Explore design through everyday objects and discover how designers create solutions to problems. - Royal Academy of Engineering
Fun engineering activities and challenges that encourage children to think creatively and find solutions to real-world problems. - Tinkercad
A free online design tool where children can create 3D designs and explore modelling, construction and engineering.