Design & Technology Overview
At Sandling Primary School, our Design and Technology curriculum is crafted to inspire creativity and develop our Sandling PRACTISE values. Through concepts such as mechanics, textiles, structures, electric and digital technologies, and cooking and nutrition, we nurture problem solvers who innovate and find solutions. The curriculum builds resilience as pupils refine their projects and overcome challenges. We foster an adventurous spirit by encouraging exploration of diverse materials and techniques, while promoting creativity in design tasks. Collaborative projects enhance teamwork, and individual assignments cultivate independence. As pupils gain proficiency, they develop self-assurance in their abilities. Understanding the practical applications of their work fosters esteem, encouraging pride in their achievements and respect for the design and technology subject.
What our pupils say about their design & technology learning
| “We had to make medals in school. First we had to mix flour, salt and water and made them. Once they were dry, we were able to paint them. We had to wait for a long time for them to dry first though." Roman – Year R |
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“In DT we made a sea-side picture using a running stitch. I used the running stick to create a boarder around the outside of the binca." Mylo – Year 2 |
| “We learnt how to make our own guacamole. First we tasted a range of guacamole, and decided the recipes to use for making our own. We learnt how to use knives safely when preparing the food." Ursula – Year 4 |
| “I loved how we designed and built our bridges which were meant to hold a certain weight. It was shocking that as soon as we put weight on them, they collapsed! We added more tape to ours to make it stronger, which made it successful in the end!" Judd – Year 5 |
| “I enjoyed making the rainforest shelter, I found it difficult but I was resilient! I had to plan, measure and cut the materials I needed, which took a while. In the end, I used wood, saws and a hot glue gun to make mine!" Sophia – Year 6 |
Curriculum Overview
Within our design and technology curriculum, pupils use creativity and imagination, to design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts. 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.
We ensure that our pupils are taught:
Design
- use research to help design innovative, functional, appealing products, which are fit for purpose, for themselves and other users based on design criteria
- generate, develop, model and communicate their ideas through discussion, annotated sketches, templates, mock-ups and, where appropriate, cross-sectional and exploded diagrams, prototypes, pattern pieces and computer-aided design
Make
- select from and use a wide range of tools and equipment to perform practical tasks accurately
- select from and use a wide range of materials and components, including construction materials, textiles and ingredients, according to their characteristics
Evaluate
- explore, analyse and evaluate a range of existing products
- evaluate their ideas and products against design criteria (including their own design criteria) and consider the views of others to improve their work
- understand how key events and individuals in design and technology have helped shape the world
Technical knowledge
- apply their understanding of how to strengthen, stiffen and reinforce complex structures
- understand and use mechanical systems in their products in
- understand and use electrical systems in their products
- apply their understanding of computing to program, monitor and control their products
Concepts
We teach this through a curriculum which progresses through concepts such as Mechanics, Textiles and Structures. These concepts ensure that children’s knowledge and skills are carefully planned and built upon as they move from Year R to Year 6.
Whole School Long Term Plan
| Name | |
|---|---|
| DT Long Term Plan.pdf | Download |
Year Group Medium Term Plans
Please contact the Design & Technology Lead via the school office if you have any further questions.
