Design Technology
Intent
The Design and Technology curriculum at Thornhill Primary School is designed to inspire the children to think like designers, engineers, chefs and architects and to learn the skills needed to make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts. Design and Technology is an engaging, inspiring, challenging and practical subject which encourages the children to be ambitious. We offer the children a broad and balanced curriculum which prepares them for life beyond primary education. Design and Technology can be found in many of the objects the children use every day and is a part of children’s life experiences.
Implementation
The Design and Technology curriculum at Thornhill Primary School prepares children to deal with tomorrow’s rapidly changing world. It encourages children to become independent, creative problem solvers and thinkers - both as individuals and as part of a team. It enables them to identify the needs and opportunities offered by a product and to respond to them by developing a range of ideas and by making products and systems.Through the study of Design and Technology, they combine knowledge with practical skills to develop an understanding of aesthetic, social and environmental issues, as well as an understanding of function and industry. This allows them to reflect on and evaluate past and present technology, its uses and impacts. The Design and Technology curriculum is structured into 5 main strands as derived from the National Curriculum:
• Mechanical Systems
• Structures
• Textiles
• Cooking and Nutrition
• Electrical Systems
A unit of planning from each of the strands is in place for each year group which builds on previous learning and ensures progression in both skills and knowledge and understanding throughout the school.