Intent

At Brenzett Primary School, our intent is to provide a comprehensive Design and Technology (D&T) curriculum that equips our pupils with the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to become creative designers, problem-solvers, and critical thinkers. Through our D&T curriculum, we aim to foster pupil’s resilience, resourcefulness and collaboration, enabling them to apply their learning in real-life contexts.

We are committed to promoting a culture of innovation, where pupils have the freedom to explore, experiment, and take risks within a safe and inclusive learning environment. Our D&T curriculum is designed to ignite a passion for creativity and an appreciation of the impact of design and technology in our everyday lives, society and the wider world.

Implementation

1. Curriculum design and sequenced learning

At our school we follow a D&T curriculum that builds upon prior learning and progressively develops pupils' knowledge and skills. We use the Kapow scheme for DT which focuses on four key areas: designing, making, evaluating, and technical knowledge. It is guided by the National Curriculum and ensures coverage of a wide range of material areas, including structures, mechanisms, electrical systems, textiles, and food technology.

The curriculum is sequenced to allow pupils to explore increasingly complex projects, enabling them to deepen their understanding and refine their techniques over time. It provides opportunities for cross-curricular links, where pupils can apply their knowledge of mathematics, science and art to their D&T projects.

Knowledge Organisers for each unit support pupils in building a foundation of factual knowledge by encouraging recall of key facts and vocabulary.

2. High-quality teaching and learning

Our DT provision is characterised by high-quality teaching and learning strategies that engage and challenge our pupils. Our class teachers use a range of teaching approaches, including direct instruction, hands-on practical activities, group work, and independent research, to cater to different learning styles and abilities.

Practical sessions are well-structured and well-resourced, giving pupils access to a range of tools, materials, and technologies relevant to each project.

3. Integration of creativity and technology

We utilize appropriate digital technologies to enhance the design and manufacturing process. This integration of digital tools not only develops pupils' technical knowledge and skills but also prepares them for the evolving demands of an increasingly technological society.

4. Meaningful links with the real world

We strive to make D&T engaging and relevant by establishing meaningful links with the real world.

Through these experiences, our pupils develop a deep understanding of the role of design and technology in various fields, such as architecture, transportation, and sustainability. They also gain insight into potential career paths and develop aspirations for their future.