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Design and Technology

Subject Leader: Miss D Mitchell

Intent

Here at Netherton Church of England, the Design and Technology (D&T) curriculum aims to inspire and instil our young designers with a sense of respect, acceptance and self-worth. Rooted in our school vision - I am loved, I am accepted, I can grow, I can do it - we create a learning environment where every child feels valued, supported and confident to succeed.

By promoting these core values, we strive not only to prepare children for the challenges they may encounter, but also to empower them to navigate an increasingly technologically driven world with confidence, creativity and the belief that they can do it. When children know they are loved and accepted, they are more willing to take risks, persevere through challenges and grow from their experiences.

Within a nurturing and inclusive atmosphere, pupils are encouraged to collaborate, communicate and reflect throughout the iterative process of designing, making and evaluating. Our carefully mapped D&T curriculum ensures that knowledge and skills progress coherently across the phases, enabling children to build independence, technical understanding and confidence as they grow. 

Through D&T, we encourage children to unleash their creativity and innovation by fostering an environment where their ideas matter and their unique perspectives and abilities are respected. By reinforcing the message I can grow, pupils learn that mistakes are part of the learning journey and that resilience and reflection lead to improvement.

Moreover, by embedding our school vision throughout the curriculum, we continually affirm that every child is unconditionally loved and accepted and possesses inherent worth and dignity. This powerful message motivates pupils to approach challenges with integrity, determination and self-belief.

Ultimately, by combining technical proficiency with the values of love, respect and acceptance, our D&T curriculum equips young designers with the skills, confidence and character they need to grow and succeed. Through Design and Technology, we aim not only to shape capable and creative learners, but also compassionate individuals who will make a positive contribution to their communities and help build a future where creativity and kindness flourish hand in hand.

Implementation 

To ensure high standards of teaching and learning, we have designed a comprehensive curriculum that aligns and enhances that which is described in the National Curriculum. Every opportunity to integrate design and technology concepts with other subjects such as science, mathematics and art has been taken to ensure learning is reinforced and a holistic educational experience is provided.

Each year group undertakes three modules of D&T per year, delivered weekly in alternate half-terms. These modules have been carefully selected to progressively build on, and develop prior knowledge and skill. Furthermore, each module follows the five stages set out in our road-map: research, design, practice, make, evaluate.

Design and Technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. It encourages children to think and intervene creatively to solve problems both as individuals and as members of a team. As teachers, it is our role to help, encourage and support our children to develop their knowledge and skills by providing them with opportunities to explore, experiment and approach challenges in their own creative, unique way before reflecting upon their experience and using their findings to inform future designs. Here at Netherton, we prioritise hands-on activities with differentiated instruction to ensure that all students can be successful and apply theoretical knowledge practically, at their own pace.

Our assessment in Design and Technology is varied and authentic, incorporating a mix of formative and summative assessments, subject leader observation, work scrutiny, staff feedback, self and peer assessments as well as, importantly, pupil voice. It provides students with opportunities to demonstrate their learning through research, design, practical tasks and presentations. We use our assessment practices to help inform teaching and learning, support student progress, and promote a deeper understanding of Design and Technology concepts.

Impact

By the end of Year 6, children will have acquired a range of skills and attributes that will prepare them for the challenges ahead. They will have learnt to take risks, fostering resourcefulness, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Through the study of past and present Design and Technology, they will have gained a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the broader world. The emphasis on analytical thinking, design, and construction will have equipped them with a coherent knowledge base and understanding of products and the product design processes prevalent today. Their expanded acquisition of key vocabulary and knowledge will enable them to articulate and comprehend more complex concepts. While our comprehensive assessment approach serves as a vital pathway through which we gather insights to continually inform, guide and adapt our curriculum. Overall, we believe that through their primary D&T career, our children will have developed the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate their journey towards becoming capable and engaged citizens in an ever-evolving technological society.

Characteristics of a Design Technician

  • Significant levels of originality and the willingness to take creative risks to produce innovative ideas and prototypes.
  • An excellent attitude to learning and independent working.
  • The ability to use time efficiently and work constructively and productively with others.
  • The ability to carry out thorough research, show initiative and ask questions to develop an exceptionally detailed knowledge of users’ needs.
  • The ability to act as responsible designers and makers, working ethically, using finite materials carefully and working safely.
  • A thorough knowledge of which tools, equipment and materials to use to make their products.
  • The ability to apply mathematical knowledge.
  • The ability to manage risks exceptionally well to manufacture products safely and hygienically.
  • A passion for the subject and knowledge of, up-to-date technological innovations in materials, products and systems

Potential Careers

  • Sound engineer
  • Graphic designer
  • Video game developer
  • Mechanical engineer
  • Interior designer
  • Construction manager
  • Fashion designer
  • Architect
  • Steel fabricator
  • Electrical engineer
  • Product designer

Road Map

DT Road Map

Knowledge Organisers