How we teach Design Technology in Key Stage 1 and Expressive Arts and Design/Understanding the World in Reception

What we aim to achieve through our DT curriculum? What schemes we follow and why?

Design and Technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Design and Technology encourages children to learn to think and intervene creatively to solve problems both as individuals and as members of a team.

At Barnes Farm Infant school we encourage children to use their creativity and imagination, to design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. We aim to, wherever possible, link work to other disciplines such as mathematics, science, computing and art.

The children are also given opportunities to reflect upon and evaluate past and present design technology, its uses and its effectiveness and are encouraged to become innovators and risk-takers.

Children will develop the knowledge to have healthy minds and a healthy body.

How our DT Curriculum is delivered..

Through a variety of creative and practical activities, we teach the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to engage in an iterative process of designing and making.

The Focus for learning and teaching is to develop children's skills and knowledge in design, structures, mechanisms, electrical control and a range of materials, including food. It encourages children's creativity and encourages them to think about important issues.

Key skills and key knowledge for DT have been mapped across the school to ensure progression between year groups. This also ensures that there is a context for the children’s work in Design and Technology; that they learn about real life structures and the purpose of specific examples, as well as developing their skills throughout the programme of study.

What difference is our DT Curriculum making?  What assessments we use? How we track progress.

Children 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,

Assessment is ongoing to inform teachers with their planning and preparation of lessons. Design and Technology is monitored continually throughout the year to improve teaching and learning and to deepen the learning of the children. Summative assessment is completed at the end of each term through Target tracker to inform teachers and subject leaders of the skills met and any improvements to be embedded.  The leader will monitor through lesson observations, pupil interviews and through book monitoring.

Ways We Celebrate DT...

Class assemblies

Harvest assembly

Christmas performances

Design Technology morning

School Displays