Rationale

At Westcliffe Primary school we recognise that Design Technology is about providing children with a real-life context for learning. As an inspiring and practical subject, we intend to prepare children to deal with an ever-changing technological world, encouraging them to become creative and resourceful problem solvers, working both independently and as members of a team. We teach them to be inspired by real world opportunities and relevant problems, identifying needs and developing a range of ideas and solutions in a variety of contexts.

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.

How is the subject taught

DT is taught through a topic based approach. Skills are built upon as the children progress through school. Focused lessons are taught to ensure particular skills are learnt before being used as part of a larger project.

If you walk into a DT lesson you will see:

• Children talking to each and supporting each other by sharing ideas and skills
• Children practising focused skills to use within a larger project.
• Children using a variety of tools and materials
• Creative and independent children
• Children who show persistence and resilience in their work
• Smiling children who are proud of what they have accomplished
• Children who feel confident to take risks and learn through trial and error

If you have any further enquiries about Design technology within our school, please contact Mrs Jane Carter.