Construction of the DT Curriculum
Design and Technology at Newby is seen as an iterative process - children develop an understanding that the final product isn't as important as the process we go through in getting there.
Pupils have an opportunity to carefully consider audience, purpose, brief, materials and process when thinking about each unit of DT. Children have an opportunity to de-construct as well as constructing and build on skills each year.
Each unit of work builds towards our 'Dragons Den' session - where children must present their finished idea or product to their parents, peers and the Newby Dragons!
Ambition of the Curriculum
At Newby Primary, we believe that Design and Technology should be taught in a way that inspires creativity and imagination. Our pupils are encouraged to consider real-life problems: designing, making and evaluating products considering the product, purpose and user.
We aim to inspire pupils to be innovative and creative thinkers who have an appreciation for the product design cycle through drafting design concepts and ideas, creating their product and reflecting on its suitability.
We provide opportunities for our children to research past and present designs and designers, understanding the impact that these products have had on daily life. When designing, children are encouraged to communicate their ideas through diagrams, mock-ups and prototypes. They learn technical knowledge relating to structures, mechanisms, textiles and food technology. They also develop skills when using various tools including scissor, saws and drills, considering accuracy and safety. Our children are encouraged to evaluate and test their ideas and products, ensuing that it meets the initial design brief.
We aim to build an awareness of the impact of design and technology on our lives and encourage our children to become resourceful, enterprising citizens who will have skills to contribute to future design advancements.
Skills and Content
Within each unit of work, each session has a clear focus. Some sessions are allocated to developing the required skills - cutting, measuring, joining etc.
Other sessions are allocated to the knowledge and understanding of the process of Design. Exploring the brief, discussing purpose, considering previous designers work and evaluating this too.