Intent

At More Park we believe Design Technology is an inspiring, practical and rigorous subject. It is a subject which encourages children to  design and think creatively,  inspiring them and giving children the confidence to create a range of structures, mechanisms, textiles, electrical systems and food products with a purpose. We aim to provide the opportunity for children to solve real life and relevant problems within a range of contexts to enable the development of skills within the design, make and evaluate cycle.

Implementation

Children are taught Design Technology across three terms a year with links to termly topics where possible, alternating with Art units. They experience a variety of creative and practical lessons enabling them to engage in designing and creating products. We follow the design, make and evaluate cycle to ensure children are equipped with the knowledge, skills and understanding to create products for specific audiences and purposes.

When designing, children are taught to use research and criteria to inform their design, discussing their ideas and producing sketches, diagrams and prototypes, using computer-aided designs where necessary.

During the making process, children are able to use a wide range of tools, equipment and materials to be successful innovators and creators, by performing and practising a range of practical tasks like cutting, shaping and joining accurately.

Children will have regular opportunities to evaluate and discuss a range of existing products as well as their own designs and creations to improve their work. Alongside this, they will be able to research key events and individuals in Design Technology and investigate how they have helped to shape the world.

A progression of skills document has been created to ensure skills are mapped out across the year groups and that children are receiving a wide range of skills and knowledge. Where possible, Design Technology is linked to other learning in school in order for the children to learn about real-life implications.

Impact

In an ever-increasing technological world, we ensure the children learn how to take risks, become resourceful, capable and innovative citizens, developing the expertise needed to perform and participate in everyday, technological tasks confidently and successfully. Through the design, make, evaluate cycle and research into existing products and key people, the children will develop a vital understanding of the impact on daily life and the importance of Design Technology in the wider world, enabling them to make future contributions to society.