Design & Technology

Our Intent

In Thames View Primary School, the intent of the Design & Technology (D&T) curriculum is to inspire, engage and challenge pupils, fostering their creativity, problem-solving skills, and technical knowledge. The school's curriculum design ensures that D&T lessons are practical, purposeful, and relevant, enabling pupils to design, make, and evaluate a range of products that solve real-world problems. The intent is underpinned by a clear progression of skills and knowledge, ensuring that pupils build upon prior learning and develop a deep understanding of the design process.

The school's intent for D&T is rooted in the National Curriculum requirements but goes beyond mere compliance. It aims to instill a love for designing and making while nurturing pupils' ability to think critically and innovatively. This intent is communicated effectively to all stakeholders, including pupils, teachers, parents, and governors, highlighting the value and importance of D&T in providing a holistic education that prepares pupils for the challenges of the modern world.

Implementation

In Thames View Primary School, the implementation of the D&T curriculum is characterised by high-quality teaching that is informed by teachers' subject expertise, ongoing professional development, and a deep understanding of effective pedagogical practices in D&T. Teachers use a variety of teaching strategies to cater to different learning styles, ensuring that all pupils are actively engaged in the design and making process.

Practical, hands-on activities form the cornerstone of D&T lessons, allowing pupils to apply their knowledge of materials, structures, mechanisms, and electrical systems to create innovative solutions. Cross-curricular links are seamlessly integrated into D&T lessons, providing opportunities for pupils to apply their mathematical, scientific, and artistic skills in a meaningful context.

Pupils are encouraged to take risks, experiment, and learn from failure, fostering a growth mindset and resilience. The school provides access to a wide range of tools, equipment, and materials, enabling pupils to explore and develop their practical skills in a safe and supportive environment. Collaborative projects and peer assessment further enhance pupils' learning experiences, promoting teamwork and communication skills.

Impact

The impact of an outstanding D&T curriculum in a primary school is evident in the progress and achievements of pupils across all year groups. Pupils demonstrate a deep understanding of the design process, showing creativity, originality, and attention to detail in their products. They are able to evaluate their own work critically, identifying strengths and areas for improvement, and applying feedback to refine their designs.

Pupils develop practical skills that are transferable to a range of contexts, equipping them with the confidence and capability to tackle real-world challenges. The impact of D&T extends beyond academic attainment, nurturing pupils' creativity, resilience, and problem-solving abilities, essential skills for success in further education and the workplace.

Through D&T, pupils are inspired to explore career pathways in design, engineering, and technology, breaking down gender stereotypes and promoting diversity in STEM disciplines. The impact of the D&T curriculum is evident in pupils' enthusiasm for the subject, their pride in their achievements, and their ability to articulate their design choices and processes with clarity and confidence.

In conclusion, our D&T curriculum at Thames View Primary School not only equips pupils with the knowledge and skills to excel in design and technology but also fosters a lifelong passion for creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. It lays the foundation for pupils to become confident, articulate, and capable individuals who are well-prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.