What does Design Technology look like at Watchfield Primary School?
At Watchfield the intention is that children will have hands on, practical experience of designing, making and evaluating products in their Design Technology lessons. Children will use their creativity and imagination to design and make products that solve real and relevant problems, from a range of contexts whilst considering their own and others’ needs, wants, interests and opinions. They will acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and apply learning from other areas such as maths, science and art. Children are encouraged to develop resilience and understand that risk taking is part of the design process, becoming resourceful and innovative learners. They will develop a critical understanding of the impact of Design Technology on daily life and the wider world through the evaluation of past and present designs. 

How will this happen?
Children at Watchfield will be given opportunities to design and make products based on the Kapow scheme of work, which the school follows. They will have the opportunity to work collaboratively, sharing ideas and knowledge and supporting each other in their learning from EYFS to Year 6. They will be given opportunities to explore and evaluate a range of existing products and use what they learn from these when designing, making and evaluating. They will have opportunities to explore materials and tools, and be taught a variety of skills, which they will apply in lessons. The Kapow design criteria and knowledge and skills progression will be implemented to ensure more challenge as children progress through the school. 

How will this benefit my child?

Children at Watchfield will be able to design purposeful and functional products and be able togenerate, develop and communicate their ideas through a range of media. They will be able to select and use tools and materials according to their characteristics and properties, in order to make what they have designed. Children will evaluate their design against design criteria and consider ways to improve their work; this can include applying technical knowledge gained from prior learning. They will also understand how key events and individuals working in the design and technology industry have helped shape the world we live in.