Design and Technology
“Maintain your spirit of curiosity, keep questioning things, you'll find new ways to innovate”
Richard Branson
Intent
At Puss Bank School and Nursery the Design and Technology (DT) curriculum is to inspire pupils to think creatively, identify real-world problems, and develop solutions through thoughtful design processes. We ensure that pupils develop the knowledge, skills, and understanding required to engage confidently with the designed and made world.
The DT curriculum is crafted to provide opportunities for pupils to explore, design, make, and evaluate products across a range of contexts. It aims to develop pupils' creativity, problem-solving abilities, technical skills, and understanding of materials and components.
Meaningful links are made with other subjects such as Science, Mathematics and Computing so that children are applying these skills in a DT context.
Through DT projects, pupils are encouraged to take risks, collaborate with peers, and appreciate the importance of design and innovation in everyday life, including the importance of roles that significant designers and innovators have in the world.
By the time children leave Puss Bank School and Nursery we aim for all children to be confident, competent, and creative designers, equipped with the skills and knowledge to engage with the designed and made world effectively.
Implementation
At Puss Bank School and Nursey the DT curriculum is carefully planned and delivered to ensure high-quality learning experiences for all pupils. Teachers are knowledgeable about the DT National Curriculum requirements and use this as a basis for designing a progressive and coherent curriculum that builds upon pupils' prior learning.
DT projects are purposeful, engaging, and relevant to pupils' lives, providing opportunities for practical, hands-on learning experiences. Teacher use focused skills lessons to ensure children are using equipment safely and accurately.
Pupils are encouraged to apply their knowledge and skills in practical contexts, using a variety of tools, equipment, and materials safely and effectively. Teachers provide clear guidance and support throughout the design and making process, promoting independence and resilience in pupils.
In Upper Key Stage Two pupils are introduced to basic programming concepts and the use of control technologies, such as Crumble micro controllers, to enhance their design solutions.
Pupils are encouraged to reflect on their design decisions, evaluate their finished products, and suggest improvements for future projects.
Impact
Assessment in DT is formative and ongoing, allowing teachers to track pupils' progress, provide timely feedback, and support individual learning needs.
• Children will be able to articulate their design choices, evaluate the effectiveness of their solutions, and suggest
improvements based on feedback received.
• Children will demonstrate an emerging understanding of design principles, technical skills, and problem-solving
strategies.
• Children will develop confidence in their creative abilities, resilience in overcoming design challenges, and a sense of
achievement in successfully completing projects.
• Children will depend skills such as teamwork, communication, and critical thinking.
• Children will show enthusiasm for DT and take pride in their work.
• Children will display a growing appreciation for the role of design and technology in society both past and present.