Intent

At Trumps Green Infant School, we aim to encourage children to become creative problem-solvers, both as individuals and as part of a team. Through the study of Design and Technology, children combine practical skills with an understanding of how to take risks, becoming resourceful and capable citizens. Through evaluation of past and present Design and Technology, they will develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world, preparing them to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world using the language of design and technology. The study of Design and Technology is important in enabling all children to gain ‘real-life’ experiences.

Implementation

To ensure high standards of teaching and learning in Design and Technology, we implement a curriculum that is progressive throughout the whole school. Design and Technology is taught as part of a half termly or termly topic, focusing on knowledge and skills stated in the 2014 Primary National Curriculum in England. This provides a broad framework and outlines the knowledge and skills taught in each Key Stage.

Teachers plan lessons for their class using our progression of knowledge and skills document. The progression document ensures the curriculum is covered and the skills/knowledge taught is progressive from year group to year group.

A variety of teaching approaches are used based on the teacher’s judgement to ensure lessons that are engaging, broad and balanced. We provide a variety of opportunities for Design & Technology learning to take place inside and outside the classroom, making use of our outdoor learning areas.

In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), pupils explore through a combination of child initiated and adult directed activities. They learn to:

• Use different media and materials to express their own ideas.
• Use what they have learnt about media and materials in original ways, thinking about form, function and purpose.
• Make plans and construct with a purpose in mind using a variety of resources.
• Develop skills to use simple tools and techniques appropriately, effectively and safely.
• Select appropriate resources for a product and adapt their work where necessary.
• Cook and prepare food adhering to good health and hygiene routines.

In Key Stage 1, pupils are taught to:

• Develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world.
• Build and apply a repertoire of knowledge, understanding and skills in order to design and make high-quality prototypes and products for a wide range of users.
• Critique, evaluate and test their ideas and products and the work of others.
• Understand and apply the principles of nutrition and learn how to cook.

Impact

Teaching and learning is evaluated by learning walks conducted by subject leaders and SLT where applicable, drop-ins, planning and work scrutinies, moderation sessions and pupil interviews. It is our aim that all children will achieve age related expectations in Design & Technology; ongoing assessments take place throughout the academic year, informing subsequent planning and enabling teachers to support and challenge pupils appropriately. Within Design and Technology, we strive to prepare children to take part in the development of tomorrow’s rapidly changing world.