Design and Technology

Intent

At Sharp Lane Primary School, we recognise the importance of Design and Technology in every aspect of daily life. Our intent is to inspire pupils to be aspirational by encouraging them to use their creativity and imagination to design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts. Children are encouraged to consider their own and others’ needs, wants and values throughout the design process. We want our pupils to believe in their own abilities and achievements, developing confidence through opportunities to reflect on and evaluate both past and present design technology, its uses and its effectiveness. We aim to nurture innovators and risk-takers who are equipped to tackle challenges with curiosity and determination.

Implementation

Our Design and Technology curriculum ensures that all pupils develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world. We implement this by:

•       Teaching a progressive curriculum that builds knowledge and skills in designing, making, and evaluating products.
•       Providing opportunities for pupils to commit to hands-on, practical activities that encourage creativity, problem-solving and resilience.
•       Guiding pupils to plan, make, test and evaluate their work, making changes where needed to improve outcomes.
•       Ensuring children work within a range of relevant contexts, such as home, school, community and the wider world.
•       Introducing pupils to key individuals, past and present, who have contributed to technological innovation and design.
•       Embedding links with mathematics, science, computing and art to give real-life purpose and relevance to learning.
•       Including food technology to teach pupils how to apply principles of nutrition and learn how to cook.

Impact

Through our Design and Technology curriculum, pupils at Sharp Lane Primary School:

•       Discover how design and technology influence the world around them and how innovative ideas can solve real problems.
•      Develop creativity, independence and confidence in their ability to design, make and evaluate products.
•      Learn to think critically, reflect on their work and adapt their ideas to improve outcomes.
•      Apply a range of technical knowledge and practical skills to real-life challenges.
•      Work collaboratively, developing teamwork and communication skills through shared design projects.
•      Leave Sharp Lane as resourceful, enterprising and imaginative learners, equipped with the skills and curiosity to shape the world around them.