What does Design and Technology look like at AHPS? (Intent)
Design and technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Using creativity and imagination, pupils explore, design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. They acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. Children are taught to use tools correctly and safely to combine their designing and making skills alongside their knowledge and understanding in order to construct products that satisfy needs and challenges. They will also learn to apply the principles of a healthy diet and prepare and cook a variety of dishes. As the children make their way through the school, they will develop their understanding to explore, Investigate and analyse products, explore complex structures and use mechanical systems and electrical systems in products.
How do we do this? (Implementation)
At AHPS, Design and Technology inspires children to develop practical skills, creativity, and problem-solving for an ever-changing world. Through hands-on projects, they research, explore, and innovate, working independently and in teams. From textiles and food technology to electric circuits and woodwork, our lessons cover a wide range of exciting disciplines.
Aligned with the National Curriculum, our programme ensures all children gain key knowledge, skills, and vocabulary. They also use sketchbooks to design, explore, and evaluate their ideas. With opportunities for enrichment, children take ownership of their learning and experience Design and Technology in depth.
What difference does it make? (Impact)
As designers, children will leave Avanti House Primary School with the knowledge and skills embedded to take with them into the wider world. During their time at Avanti they will nurture their knowledge and skills so that they can be applied into other areas of the curriculum. Children will be able to demonstrate their understanding and knowledge when using tools or skills in the opportunities in and out of school.
How you can support your children at home
Here are some ideas for parents to support your child with Design and Technology at home:
Encourage Creative Play: Provide materials like cardboard, tape, string, and scissors for your child to build and create. This fosters problem-solving and innovation.
Cook Together: Involve your child in planning and preparing meals. Teach them basic cooking skills, measuring ingredients, and discussing food safety.
Explore Textiles: Introduce simple sewing or weaving projects. Let them customise old clothes, create fabric crafts, or even try basic embroidery.
Build with Everyday Objects: Use recycled materials (e.g., bottles, boxes) to design and build models, encouraging experimentation and creativity.
Experiment with Circuits: If possible, provide a simple electronics kit for them to explore how circuits work by creating basic projects like a light-up card.
Problem-Solving Challenges: Set challenges like designing a bridge from straws or building a paper tower. Encourage them to test and refine their designs.
Encourage Sketching and Planning: Provide sketchbooks for your child to draw designs, brainstorm ideas, or plan projects before building or crafting.
These activities can make learning fun while reinforcing key Design and Technology skills!