Design and Technology

INTENT:

At Beacon Hill, our Design and Technology curriculum is designed to inspire children to think creatively, innovatively and inquisitively. We want pupils to develop a curiosity about how things work and the confidence to design, make and evaluate their own ideas.

Our aim is to equip children with practical skills alongside an understanding of the design process, encouraging them to take risks, solve problems and reflect on their work. We also want children to develop an awareness of the role design and technology plays in everyday life and the wider world.

IMPLEMENTATION:

We provide a range of engaging and varied learning opportunities that allow children to develop their technical skills in design and technology. Pupils are taught to design, make and evaluate products for a purpose, using a range of tools, materials and techniques.

Alongside practical skills, children develop their understanding of product design, including how products are created, improved and used in real-life contexts. Key vocabulary is explicitly taught and revisited to ensure children can confidently explain their ideas and processes.

Cooking and nutrition are an important part of the curriculum, where children learn about healthy eating, food preparation and the principles of a balanced diet. Design and Technology is carefully linked with other subjects such as art, maths and science, with teachers planning these connections to ensure learning is meaningful and purposeful.

IMPACT:

Through our broad, challenging and inspiring curriculum, children develop a strong set of skills in designing, making and evaluating. They become confident in using tools and materials and are able to think critically about their work and how it can be improved.

By the end of Year 6, pupils have built a secure knowledge of design processes, technical skills and nutrition. They are able to apply their learning across different contexts and are well-prepared for the next stage of their education, with the creativity and problem-solving skills needed for future learning.