In this section:

• Overview
• Pre-Prep Department
• Prep Department
• Year 3 and 4 Department
• Art Department
• Classics Department
• Design and Technology Department
• English Department
• French Department
• Geography Department
• History Department
• ICT Department
• Maths Department
• Music Department
• RE Department
• Science Department
• Examination Revision

Design and Technology Department

Design and Technology is all about solving problems through designing and making. Although only taught as a separate curriculum subject from Year 5, pupils have been introduced to many aspects of the subject before this through work in other curriculum areas such as art and science. It is a very popular ‘hands-on’ subject, appealing to pupils’ natural curiosity and creativity, and encouraging them to develop an understanding of how things work and a critical awareness of the manmade world.



Pupils cover one unit per term, each unit incorporating a number of Focussed Practical Tasks (FPTs) allowing them to develop the skills and understanding required to complete a Design and Make Assignment (DMA) in the latter part of the term. The units have been selected and planned to be in line with current National Curriculum requirements in terms of knowledge, skills and understanding and breadth of study, and to maximise continuity and progression so that the pupils can develop the confidence to become independent problem solvers.

In Design and Technology pupils are encouraged to think imaginatively, not to think in terms of ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ outcomes but rather solutions which work. They learn to evaluate their work in order to begin to decide for themselves which solutions work best and modify their work appropriately.

In Year 5, pupils begin to develop their understanding of the design process through simple design and make tasks. Projects include producing a poster for the annual May Fete at the school, making desk tidies, Christmas gift bags and stockings, art deco mirrors and slippers. In completing these tasks they develop their skills with simple tools and a range of materials.They progress to apply their acquired skills and understanding to projects involving simple mechanisms and control, with units covering, for example, moving toys, battery driven buggies and computer controlled model fairground rides. They have opportunities to work both independently and as part of a team.

All lessons take place in the Design and Technology room. Pupils are taught to adopt safe practice when using tools and equipment, and are encouraged to use a whole range of found and recycled materials alongside more traditional art and design materials. Audio visual and ICT facilities are readily available to support research and design work at all levels.