Design + Technology

Meet The Team

               Miss Barton                                 Mrs Peeling                            Mrs Burbidge                                      Art School Tribe

             Subject Leader                           Subject Link TA                  Subject Link Governor                                               

Intent

At St Saviour Primary School we intend to build a Design and Technology curriculum which develops learning and results in the acquisition of knowledge and skills. We believe that all children have right to equal access of the Design and Technology curriculum whatever their race, gender, beliefs or ability. As pupils develop knowledge, skills and opinions, this subject will also support the development of positive SEMHWB (Social, emotional, mental health and wellbeing).

Design and Technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Using creativity and imagination, pupils design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. They acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, nutrition, computing and art. Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, they develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world. High-quality design and technology education makes an essential contribution to the creativity, culture, wealth and well-being of the nation.

Implementation

Design Technology is categorised as one of the Creative Development subjects and is led by the Creative Development coordinator, there is also an assistant leader in this team and a linked subject governor. Termly meetings are held for all members of the Creative Development team.

The teaching of Design Technology units is by class teachers and is usually in a block of lessons due to the tools and equipment needed, although lessons can be delivered weekly over a half term like in other foundation subjects. Each unit of Design and Technology learning follows the National Curriculum process of Design > Make > Evaluate, with technical knowledge integrated throughout. Children are given the opportunity to work independently and collaboratively in different areas of their Design and Technology leaning.

Units are set out by the subject leader to ensure there is progression between year groups and key stage phases. In EYFS and KS1 pupils learn about mechanisms, structures and textiles, in LKS2 this advances to joining textiles, mechanical systems, shell structures and electrical systems and then in UKS2 these same strands are built on allowing for further scientific and technological knowledge to be applied. Across all year groups children will complete a unit on nutrition, we believe this is fundamental in allowing pupils to learn and grow as healthy, self-sufficient beings. 

Additional to these lessons are whole school events, such as STEM week. Opportunities like this allow pupils the freedom to explore and tinker like engineers in teacher supported projects.  

SEN children are given the necessary support to access the curriculum and where necessary tasks are adapted. Pupils identified as working beyond year group expectations will be able to extend their experiences by being more innovative in their designs and where possible working with children from other schools.

It is an essential part of our Design and Technology teaching, that all equipment is properly demonstrated and safe practise is shared. Children will be made aware of potential dangers caused by equipment and made responsible for the up keep of school property. All potentially harmful equipment will be stored securely out of reach of pupils. Children will not use any potentially harmful equipment without the guidance of an adult.

Progression documents are grouped into key stage strands, these are tracked by class teachers to ensure thorough coverage and progression. Termly assessments are recorded and monitored by the Creative Development subject leader.

We are registered with STEM.org and can use this organisation to find relevant STEM ambassadors to support our in school teaching and learning. St Saviour is also registered with the Design and Technology Association (DATA).

Continuous Professional Development opportunities are available to the school through the DATA and STEM.org. The Creative Development lead feeds back any training or relevant changes to the teaching team.

Impact

Ongoing assessments take place throughout the year. Teachers use this information to inform future planning, ensuring children are supported and challenged appropriately. This data is analysed on a termly basis to inform and address any trends or gaps in attainment.

Children in the Early Years Foundation Stage are assessed within the ‘Expressive Arts and Design’ strand and their progress is also tracked termly when age related expectation levels are reported.

Key Documents

The file list below contains links to key subject documents.

Additional Information

 Coming soon ...

Subject In Action Around School

Images of Design and Technology in action around school.