DT

At Outwoods, we are committed to providing a high-quality Design Technology curriculum that follows the National Curriculum, building knowledge and understanding progressively over time.

In Key Stage 1, children undertake projects across four distinct areas: Structures, Textiles, Mechanical Systems, and Food Technology. Each unit of study has been thoughtfully planned to introduce students to fundamental concepts and techniques. As our children progress into Key Stage 2, their learning continues to evolve. They complete two units in Food Technology, Textiles and Mechanical Systems and one unit in Structures and Electrical Systems.

In blocking our DT units, we aim to maximise instructional time available and ensure children experience a clear learning journey as they navigate their way through the stages of design. Our teachers take time to ensure they know their children’s starting points and build on prior learning with their children before introducing the new unit of learning.

Units are deliberately crafted to complement the wider curriculum, ensuring our projects have greater purpose for the children. For instance, following learning about what constitutes a healthy, balanced diet in Science, our Year 5 children then research, design and make a nutritious Anglo-Saxon stew. This project not only nurtures their culinary skills but also provides practical learning experiences, such as cooking over an open fire during a Forest School session.

To ensure a progressive developing of technical skills, our curriculum allows children to advance in their DT abilities as they move through school. For example, in Textiles, pupils begin with basic gluing techniques and gradually learn a variety of sewing methods and stitches, which culminates in the creation of an apron in Year 6. Similarly, in Structures, our children’s learning journey starts with cutting and sticking before advancing to sawing and employing triangulation to enhance the strength of their creations.

We believe that celebrating achievements is vital; hence, we actively involve parents and carers in exploring and trialling the technical skills required for each project, fostering a strong sense of community. Learning in DT is approached with enthusiasm, and our children often proudly share their outcomes and their newly acquired skills.

We pride ourselves on the ambitious and purposeful nature of the projects offered within our curriculum, which also serve to enrich children's understanding of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). An exemplary project is the use of coding with Crumbles in Year 4, enabling students to design and implement a functioning car alarm.

Aligned with our school values of Daring, Ambition, and Responsibility, we consistently aim to develop students' awareness of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and our commitment to climate stewardship. We inspire children to ‘Dream big and aim high’ in their designs, whilst advocating for responsible practices in sourcing materials. We aspire for our children to be ambitious creators who strive to make a meaningful difference through innovative and functional designs.