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 termly using the Kapow scheme. 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.