DESIGN TECHNOLOGY AT OAK GREEN SCHOOL

Why do we teach what we teach? (Our intent)

At Oak Green, we aim to provide children with a wide-ranging and well-balanced curriculum, where pupils encounter many creative learning experiences.

Design technology provides children with a chance to solve problems, explore their creativity and embrace change through various mediums (for example, clay, textiles, construction). Through our design technology lessons, we seek to offer various opportunities for children to develop their creativity, imagination and developing their analytical thinking whilst also allowing pupils to individually develop their confidence through experimentation. Pupils will also be taught how to cook and apply the principles of nutrition and healthy eating.

We aim for all pupils to leave Oak Green with the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to engage in an iterative process of designing and making.  

How do we teach it? (Our implementation)

DT often runs in rotation with art where these 2 subjects are taught on a weekly basis each term. Frequently, DT is supported through links to topics and themes in other cross curricular subjects. There is access to a well-resourced DT room where pupils can explore different styles and techniques. In order for progression, the curriculum is thoroughly planned, allowing coverage of DT to be broad and develop skills and knowledge year-on-year across mechanisms (pully systems), structures, food, textiles (sewing and fabric) and control.

What is the difference that this makes? (Our impact)

Children develop a range of skills that they can improve and build on each year. This enjoyment and confidence in Design Technology can then be applied to other areas of the curriculum.  Through careful planning the children learn to develop their creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world. Learning how to cook is also a crucial life skill that enables pupils to feed themselves and others affordably and well, now and in later life.