“Others dream of things that were, and ask ‘Why?’ I dream of things that never were, and ask ‘Why not?'” – Cardinal Saint-Saens
The INTENT of learning Design Technology at Clearwell
Design and technology is an inspiring and practical subject at Clearwell Primary School. Our curriculum allows opportunities for pupils to use their creativity and imagination, to design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. Learners are encouraged to take risks, become resourceful, innovative and enterprising. We believe that design and technology gives young people the skills and abilities to engage positively with the designed and made world and to harness the benefits of technology. We want our children to learn how products and systems are designed and manufactured, how to be innovative and to make creative use of a variety of resources including digital technologies, to improve the world around them
How Design and Technology is taught at Clearwell (Implementation)
Pupils experience DT skills planned to allow pupils to acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. Pupils begin all design projects by gathering research. Then they are taught how to evaluate past and present designs and develop an understanding of its impact on the wider world. They also learn the importance of the target audience and the relevance of market research. Pupils learn how to write design specifications, developing their ability to plan for products that are fit for purpose.
Pupils make end products from selecting and using a wider range of tools and equipment to perform practical tasks. They are also able to select from and use a wider range of materials and components, including construction materials, textiles and ingredients, according to their functional properties and aesthetic qualities. Throughout the design and making process, the pupils learn how to develop their ability to critique, evaluate and test their ideas and products and the work of others. They do this through regular formal and informal self and peer assessment opportunities.
The IMPACT of learning Design and Technology at Clearwell
- Children who passionately enjoy designing, constructing and evaluating
- Children who develop a desire to learn about up-to-date technological innovations, products and systems
- Learners who take information from other subjects, especially maths and science, and apply it using logic
- Originality – children who take safe yet creative risks
- Independent learners and learners who work constructively and productively with others
- Learners who analyse
- Learners who make mistakes and share and learn from them