Design Technology

Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works." -- Steve Jobs 

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, 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.

INTENT- Why we teach DT.

Through our DT lessons, we intend that BCS pupils will:

Develop the following KNOWLEDGE:

• What makes a healthy and varied diet.
• Where food comes from.
• How products are designed and constructed.
• What different tools and materials can be used for.
• How manufacturing processes can be sustainable.

Develop the SKILLS to be able to:  

• Evaluate existing and own products.
• Design and make new products to fulfil a particular need.
• Choosing and using appropriate materials and tools.
• Cook a variety of dishes.

See the VALUE of these things:

• To be confident & happy. To be independent learners.  To be resilient.
• To know subject-specific vocabulary and knowledge that allow links across other subjects.
• A growth mindset.
• Opportunities for all, no one should be held back because of stereotyping about who is good at DT.

IMPLEMENTATION- How we teach DT.

We use units of work from a Scheme of Work, called Projects on a Page, published by The Design and Technology Association, (DATA) a respected expert body.

Each year group from year 1 to 6, teaches four DT units from the scheme, which cover the requirements of the National Curriculum, plus other DT activities that link with other subjects. DT teaching is organised differently across the year groups. Some teach the whole class one or two units of DT each term, over a few weeks. Other year groups teach all units concurrently through the year, in small groups.

Year Six are able to give extensive opportunities to consolidate and extend DT knowledge and skills through the Enterprise Challenge project undertaken in the second half of the summer term. Pupils work in groups to innovate and manufacture a commercially viable product which is sold to raise money for charity.

IMPACT- How we know our DT teaching is effective.

We use ongoing, formative assessment during DT lessons; along with pupil’s written work and the products they make to check the development of knowledge and skills. We make summative judgements twice a year and record that data on the schools web based system, INSIGHT tracking. Any skills or knowledge that is lacking is highlighted to the teacher who can then plan opportunities to extend any weaker areas in their next unit of work.

Pupils achieve very well at BCS, they are confident to speak about their thinking when evaluating, designing and making products. They are confident in the skills they use and their products are high quality and appropriate for their purpose. They are confident to cook their own meals and discuss how to adapt published recipes.