Intent

DT forms an integral part of children’s learning at West Leigh and cross curricular links are forged wherever possible. Specific DT taught skills are planned and linked to earlier learning and children are actively encouraged to draw and build upon this previous knowledge. Links with other subject areas are openly acknowledged to make learning purposeful and relevant. If necessary, additional DT skills are also taught in isolation. The curriculum has been designed to provide all children with the opportunities to design, make and evaluate products using a range of materials including wood, textiles and electrical circuits. Vital life skills are also developed through food technology with children learning how to bake and cook using safe techniques.

Implementation

The DT curriculum at West Leigh has been designed to cover all of the skills detailed in the National Curriculum. Children are actively encouraged to develop their own styles as designers through planned teaching related to the development of skills, techniques and the effective use of different tools and materials. Children are also given opportunities to explore, evaluate and improve their work. Planning follows a cross curricular format enabling children to make relevant links across the different subject areas and to maximise pupil engagement.

To ensure access to DT for all pupils, lessons are clearly differentiated and additional support is provided if required. Adaptations of tools/materials are also available to ensure all children are able to achieve success.

Impact

Discussions with the children about this subject reveal that they view DT in a positive way and engage enthusiastically with their learning. They also recognise the importance of developing themselves as designers and the effectiveness of evaluation.

Although monitoring of DT takes place regularly the subjective nature of this subject does need to be considered when assessing children’s products. Work is collated in folders and this allows subject leaders to ensure that coverage of the subject is maintained. Pupils are encouraged to discuss their DT work with curriculum leaders and to talk about the processes involved in designing their end products. Children’s work is celebrated in many forms and is exhibited in different areas of the school.  DT linked enrichment opportunities are being developed.