Design and Technology at KWPS
What Design and Technology looks like at KWPS:
In the early years (EYFS), children explore materials, tools and construction through play. This helps them develop creativity, problem-solving skills and fine motor control. Their learning is linked to the Early Learning Goals and Development Matters statements.
In Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, children take part in structured Design and Technology lessons throughout the year. Each project follows the design process: children design a product, make it, and then evaluate how well it worked.
Over time, children learn to work with different materials and systems. These include:
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mechanisms
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structures
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textiles
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food
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electrical systems (in Key Stage 2)
The Intent of our Design and Technology Curriculum
At Kirkham and Wesham Primary School, we want Design and Technology to be exciting, practical and meaningful. Through each project, children learn how ideas become real products that solve problems and improve our lives.
Our goals are to:
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encourage creativity, independence and problem-solving
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teach practical skills using real tools and materials
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help children understand how design affects the world around them
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introduce them to past and present designers and inventions
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prepare them with the skills they need for secondary school and beyond
We want children to see themselves as future designers, engineers, inventors or chefs—and to feel confident that they can create and contribute to the world.
The Implementation of our Design and Technology Curriculum
We follow the National Curriculum, which includes five key areas:
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designing
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making
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evaluating
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technical knowledge
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cooking and nutrition
Each project is based on a design challenge or brief. Children think about the needs of users, plan their ideas, create a product, and then reflect on how it could be improved.
As they move through the school, children build on their knowledge and skills. They use a variety of materials and learn how different products work.
Cooking lessons help children learn about healthy eating and give them confidence in the kitchen.
Teachers provide clear instructions, model skills, and support children to work independently. Staff are given regular training to help make Design and Technology lessons successful and engaging.
The Impact of our Design and Technology Curriculum
By the time children leave KWPS, they will:
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feel confident with the design process, from planning to creating and evaluating
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have learned how to use tools, materials and techniques safely and effectively
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understand how good design can solve problems and improve lives
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be aware of how design has shaped the past and how it influences the world today
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be ready for the next steps in Design and Technology at secondary school
We can see the success of our curriculum through the quality of children’s work, the excitement they bring to lessons, and the creative ideas they share.
Our Design and Technology Curriculum
Our Design and Technology curriculum is based on the National Curriculum and goes beyond the basics to help children develop practical skills and creativity.
Children respond to real-life and imaginative design challenges, helping them think about the needs of others. Along the way, they develop important technical knowledge about materials, tools and how things are made.
Cooking and nutrition are also a key part of the curriculum. Children learn about healthy eating and how to prepare simple dishes safely and hygienically.
Cross-Curricular Links
Design and Technology is closely linked to other subjects. For example, children use measuring skills from maths, material knowledge from science, control systems from computing, and artistic ideas from art.
Inclusive Practice
All children take part in Design and Technology lessons. We adapt tasks and use a range of tools and materials to meet the needs of all learners.
Lessons encourage teamwork and independence. Children are supported to be creative, take risks and learn from their mistakes in a positive and safe environment.