Downe Manor Primary School

Downe Manor, where everybody has the opportunity to be inspired to reach their full potential through memorable learning experiences

Design and Technology

Intent, Implementation, and Impact Statement for Design and Technology

Intent

Vision

Our Primary school's design and technology provision is underpinned by a clear and ambitious vision. We believe that design and technology education equips children with essential skills, including problem-solving, creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. We aim to nurture our pupils' curiosity, resilience, and independence, empowering them to become effective designers and technologists.

Aims

1. To provide a curriculum that is inclusive, engaging, and celebrates the cultural and historical significance of design and technology in the United Kingdom.

2. To develop a progression of skills and knowledge, building on prior learning and supporting pupils' smooth transition to the next phase of their education.

3. To foster a collaborative and inclusive learning environment, where pupils are encouraged to share ideas, work in teams, and learn from one another.

4. To develop pupils' awareness of sustainability, ethical considerations, and the impact of design and technology on their lives, society, and the environment.

 Curriculum Design

Our curriculum design ensures that the intent of our design and technology provision is met. It is based on the National Curriculum for Design and Technology, covering the four key elements: designing, making, evaluating, and technical knowledge.

The curriculum is carefully sequenced to enable pupils to progressively develop their skills and apply them in increasingly complex projects. It provides opportunities for cross-curricular links, allowing pupils to apply design and technology knowledge in other subjects such as mathematics, science, and art.

Implementation

Quality of Teaching

Outstanding design and technology provision requires highly skilled and knowledgeable teachers. Our teachers:

  • Plan and deliver engaging and well-sequenced lessons that inspire pupils to explore and investigate different   design and technology concepts.
  • Promote open-ended problem-solving activities that encourage pupils to think creatively, take risks, and find innovative solutions.
  • Utilize a range of resources, including technology, to enhance pupils' learning experiences and demonstrate real-world applications of design and technology.
  • Support pupils in developing technical skills, such as using tools and equipment safely and effectively.

Assessment

Effective assessment practices are integral to our design and technology provision. We believe in assessing both the process and the outcome. Assessment methods include:

  • Formative assessment: Regular teacher observation and feedback during practical activities and design stages, aiming to identify areas for improvement and provide targeted support.
  • Summative assessment: Assessing pupils' final products or projects against agreed success criteria, enabling pupils to reflect on their own work and receive constructive feedback.
  • Opportunities for self-assessment and peer assessment, promoting pupil independence, and developing their ability to evaluate their own designs and make improvements accordingly

Impact

Pupil Outcomes

Our design and technology provision has a significant impact on pupil outcomes. Pupils:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of design processes, skills, and technical knowledge, evidenced through their ability to create purposeful, innovative, and well constructed products
  • Showcase their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills through their designs and solutions to design challenges.
  • Communicate and collaborate effectively, working in teams to tackle design problems, a crucial skill for their future careers.
  • Develop knowledge and understanding of sustainability, ethical issues, and the impact of design and technology on society and the environment.

Pupil Engagement and Attitudes

Our design and technology provision creates a positive and engaging learning experience. Pupils:

  • Develop a genuine passion and enthusiasm for design and technology, evidenced by high levels of engagement, motivation, and participation in lessons.
  • Demonstrate resilience, independence, and a willingness to take risks, as they navigate the iterative design process and overcome challenges
  • Exhibit a sense of pride and achievement in their work, valuing their ability to create functional and aesthetically pleasing products.

Inclusion and Equality

Our design and technology provision considers the diverse needs and backgrounds of all pupils. We:

  • Ensure that the curriculum and resources are accessible to all learners, taking into account different learning styles, abilities, and interests.
  • Provide opportunities for pupils to explore cultural and historical aspects of design and technology, promoting an inclusive and diverse curriculum.
  • Uphold high expectations for all pupils, irrespective of their gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic background, fostering an environment that values and celebrates individual achievements.

Conclusion

Downe Manor Primary school's design and technology provision demonstrates an outstanding commitment to intent, implementation, and impact. Through our clear vision, thoughtfully designed curriculum, high-quality teaching, and inclusive learning environment, we equip pupils with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to thrive as designers and technologists. We ensure that our pupils' learning experiences are engaging, empowering, and culturally relevant, resulting in excellent outcomes and a lifelong enthusiasm for design and technology education.

Click here for the Design and Technology long term plan