DT curriculum
D & T stands for Design & Technology. This subject was developed to boost Maths and Science learning through practical learning opportunities.
The Departmment for Education states the following:
Purpose of study
Design and technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. 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. They
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.
Aims
The national curriculum for design and technology aims to ensure that all pupils:
- Develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday
tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world
- Build and apply a repertoire of knowledge, understanding and skills in order to design
and make high-quality prototypes and products for a wide range of users
- Critique, evaluate and test their ideas and products and the work of others
- Understand and apply the principles of nutrition and learn how to cook.
Design & Technology at Park Lane School
At Park Lane School, Design & Technology is a part of a skills- based subject area called Challenge. Challenge combines Science, ICT & D&T to offer varied practical opportunities for all pupils. In Early Years, D & T is delivered through Expressive Arts & Design. At our school we focus on preparing pupils for adulthood and independent living. Design & Technology offers our pupils opportunities to practice important life skills such as preparing food items, cooking meals and using different tools and equipment in the process. Lessons at Park Lane school encourage pupils to try new activities and explore new equipment. Pupils may bake, prepare a sandwhich or perhaps make a shelter for a small animal. Pupils might combine science knowledge to test different materials to use in building a model house.
Learning takes place through different themes, such as Celebrations and How Things Work. Whatever learning activity pupils do in design & technology, they end up having fun and learning new skills in the process!
