Design Technology (DT)

Intent: Why teach Design Technology?

Here at Westbury-on-Trym we aim to create an inspiring, challenging and practical design and technology education. 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. Through careful consideration of cross- curricular links, the pupils 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. (Based on National Curriculum).

Implementation: How is DT taught at Westbury on Trym CE Academy?

At Westbury- on- Trym Academy cross- curricular links with science, maths, history, geography, computing, art and engineering are prominent in the children’s DT education. Within each year group, pupils must cover a specific set of skills for each DT unit, so they are ready to progress to the next year. Each unit covers a different aspect of DT (structures, mechanisms, textiles, electrical control and food) to ensure children are provided with diverse and innovative lessons throughout the year. Over each term, the children will have the opportunity to investigate, design, make and evaluate a DT project. This project may be completed during a weekly 45 min- 1 hour lesson, blocked over several afternoons or as a DT day. Their learning journey will be recorded in their topic books, with their final pieces being showcased through video or picture.

Whole school displays

At Westbury-on-Trym our whole school displays are creatively used as a platform to share each year group’s learning from the previous term with the rest of the school family and community. The displays are a ‘showcase’ of the historical and geographical topic learning that has taken place, demonstrating original and innovative cross curricular links that have made within the children’s learning experience.