Design & Technology

At Robert Bakewell, Design and Technology empowers children to become creative thinkers, problem-solvers and innovators. We believe that every product is designed to create something, for someone, for some purpose. This core principle sits at the heart of our curriculum, encouraging children to design with empathy, purpose and real-world application in mind.

Our bespoke curriculum is based on the National Curriculum and is carefully sequenced to develop children's knowledge, skills and understanding over time. Wherever possible, meaningful links are made across the curriculum so that children understand the wider context and relevance of what they are designing and making.

Across our two-year rolling programme, pupils complete three design projects each year:

·         a core skills project, developing key practical techniques and construction skills;

·         a food and nutrition project, promoting healthy lifestyles and an understanding of where food comes from; and

·         a problem-solving project, where children investigate a real-life need and design an innovative solution.

Our design process follows a clear, iterative sequence:

1.     Research – Identify a problem, investigate the needs of the user and explore existing solutions.

2.     Design – Develop ideas and design a product that is fit for purpose and meets the needs of the intended user.

3.     Create – Make the product, applying technical knowledge, practical skills and craftsmanship.

4.     Evaluate – Test and evaluate the final product against the design criteria and the user's needs, considering how it could be improved.

The skills taught are progressive from Early Years through to Year 6, ensuring children continually build upon their previous learning. By the time they leave Robert Bakewell Primary School, pupils have developed the technical knowledge, practical skills and confidence needed for a successful transition into Key Stage 3 Design and Technology.

Computing in the Early Years

In the Early Years Foundation Stage, Design and Technology is developed through Expressive Arts and Design. Children explore and experience joining materials through a range of hands-on, practical activities. They are encouraged to experiment with different materials and techniques and to explain their choices, developing early creativity, problem-solving skills and an understanding of how things are made.

Supporting Every Learner

Design and Technology lessons are adapted to ensure all children can access and succeed in the curriculum. Tasks are broken down into manageable steps and supported through modelling, visual prompts, scaffolding and appropriate tools or resources. SEND children are able to access the creative process alongside their peers, with appropriate additional support and supervision in line with their individual needs. They may require further guidance, modelling and direction throughout the design and making process to ensure they can participate fully, develop their skills and achieve success within Design and Technology.

Our aim is to nurture inquisitive, resilient and reflective designers who can analyse problems, think creatively and apply the principles of Design and Technology to improve the world around them. Through designing something, for someone, for some purpose, children learn that good design has meaning, function and the power to make a positive difference.