DT (Design Technology)
Vision
At Pakeman Primary School our vision for Design and Technology curriculum across EYFS, Key Stage 1, and Key Stage 2 is to inspire curiosity, problem-solving, and innovation through hands-on learning. In EYFS, children are introduced to basic concepts of design, exploring materials and building simple structures. As they progress to Key Stage 1, they begin to design and make more complex projects, developing skills in working with tools, materials, and understanding basic mechanisms. By Key Stage 2, students refine their technical abilities, engage in more sophisticated design challenges, and apply critical thinking to improve and innovate solutions. The curriculum aims to foster creativity, resilience, and collaboration, equipping children with the skills and mindset to become confident, forward-thinking designers and problem-solvers.
Curriculum coverage
EYFS:
The Design and Technology curriculum in EYFS encourages children to explore, experiment, and create using a variety of materials and tools. Through hands-on activities, children develop basic skills in construction, shape, and design, fostering their problem-solving abilities. They are encouraged to explore how things work, express their ideas through making, and engage in simple design challenges that develop both their fine motor skills and creativity. The curriculum supports curiosity, imagination, and an understanding of the world around them.
Key Stage 1:
In Key Stage 1, the Design and Technology curriculum focuses on developing basic design skills through simple projects that involve creating, testing, and evaluating. Children explore a range of materials and tools to design and make products, learning to work safely and effectively. They are introduced to basic principles of mechanics and structures, such as how products are assembled and how they function. The curriculum encourages problem-solving, creativity, and the ability to express and communicate ideas through practical design tasks.
Key Stage 2:
In Key Stage 2, students build on their skills by designing more complex products and using a wider variety of materials and tools. The curriculum includes learning about mechanisms, electrical systems, and more advanced techniques in food technology and textiles. Pupils are encouraged to refine their designs through evaluation and improve functionality. Critical thinking is emphasized as students consider how to meet the needs of users, solve problems, and apply their designs in real-world contexts. The curriculum fosters creativity, collaboration, and the development of practical and technical skills.
Pakeman Design and technology knowledge skills vocabulary
Pakeman Design and technology Curriculum
How to help your child at home
Parents/carers can help children develop their design and technology skills at home by encouraging hands-on projects that involve building, creating, and problem-solving. Providing a variety of materials like paper, cardboard, fabric, and simple tools can spark creativity and help children practice constructing and designing their own projects. Working together on tasks like cooking, gardening, or DIY projects also supports understanding of how things are made and how different materials work. Discussing everyday objects and how they function encourages critical thinking, while praising effort and innovation helps foster confidence and a love for problem-solving.