We are Designers
At St Mary’s, we believe that Design and Technology should be an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Using creativity and imagination, pupils design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values.
The children at St Mary’s are taught to acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, they develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world.
High-quality design and technology education makes an essential contribution to the creativity, culture, wealth and well-being of the nation.
Aims of the Design and Technology Curriculum
The national curriculum for design and technology aims to ensure that all pupils:
- develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world
- build and apply a repertoire of knowledge, understanding and skills in order to design and make high-quality prototypes and products for a wide range of users
- critique, evaluate and test their ideas and products and the work of others
- understand and apply the principles of nutrition and learn how to cook.
Vocabulary
Vocabulary forms a key part of our wider curriculum. Subject specific Tier 2 and Tier 3
words are incorporated in each module and pupils are encouraged to develop their own
‘Vital Vocabulary’ lists along with dual coding to expand their science vocabulary
repertoire.
Oracy
When discussing their findings or presenting information, pupils are encouraged to speak
using full sentences and incorporating the key scientific vocabulary. Pupils are supported
to develop their oracy skills across the school with the use of ‘Did you know…’ where children will share knowledge on our social media platforms.
Expressive Arts and Design
"EYFS Statutory Educational Programme: The development of children’s artistic and cultural awareness supports their imagination and creativity. It is important that children have regular opportunities to engage with the arts, enabling them to explore and play with a wide range of media and materials. The quality and variety of what children see, hear and participate in is crucial for developing their understanding, self-expression, vocabulary and ability to communicate through the arts. The frequency, repetition and depth of their experiences are fundamental to their progress in interpreting and appreciating what they hear, respond to and observe." (Development Matters)