Design and Technology
At Sandford St. Martin’s Primary School, we believe that Design and Technology (DT) should inspire our children to be creative, curious and resourceful as they explore how things work and develop solutions to problems.
Through our DT curriculum, children learn to think like designers and creators by researching, generating ideas, planning, creating and evaluating products. We encourage children to experiment with different materials, tools and techniques, develop practical skills and learn from their mistakes as they refine and improve their designs.
During their time at Sandford, children explore how structures, mechanisms, electrical systems and computing can be used to make products work effectively, alongside developing their understanding of cooking and nutrition. (See below for our progression map.)
We believe that practical, hands-on experiences make learning meaningful, memorable and fun. We endeavour to provide opportunities for children to design and make purposeful products for a range of users. Through investigating existing products and exploring the work of designers, engineers and inventors, pupils develop an understanding of how design and technology shape the world around them. We encourage children to consider the needs of others, the suitability of materials and the environmental impact of their choices, helping them to become thoughtful and responsible designers.
How can I support my child at home?
You can help your child develop their DT skills by:
- Encouraging them to build, construct, make and repair things using safe, suitable materials.
- Talking about everyday products: Who is the product for? What is it designed to do? How could it be improved?
- Encouraging them to draw designs, plan projects and explain their ideas before starting.
- Involving them in preparing meals, measuring ingredients and discussing healthy food choices.
- Exploring how familiar objects work, such as hinges, pulleys, switches and moving parts.
- Praising perseverance and encouraging them to learn from mistakes and improve their designs.
The most important thing to remember
In DT, the finished product is only part of the learning. Our children are developing valuable skills in creativity, problem-solving, resilience, practical work and independent thinking as they design, make, test and improve their ideas.