Design & Technology

Purpose of study

Design and technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Using creativity and imagination, pupils design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. They acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. Pupils 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. High-quality design and technology education makes an essential contribution to the creativity, culture, wealth and well-being of the nation.

Aims

The national curriculum for design and technology aims to ensure 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
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.

Link to National Curriculum Design and Technology Programmes of Study

Intent of Design Technology

Children will develop the skills to design and make a variety of high-quality, imaginative products that meet specific requirements of themselves and others. Children will be taught how to evaluate existing products, as well as those that they have created. As an essential skill for life, children are given many exciting and enjoyable experiences of cooking. They will learn both the practical skills for safe food preparation, as well as the critical principles of nutrition and healthy eating.