The National Curriculum in England (2014) describes Design and Technology as "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."

As a subject, design and technology combines skills, knowledge, concepts and values to enable children to tackle real problems. It can improve analysis, problem solving, practical capability and evaluation skills. At Deanesfield, Design and Technology is taught in every year group and offers children a chance to learn and refine their ability to plan, make and evaluate products and items of their own.

In line with the National Curriculum, our aims in the teaching of design and technology are to allow children to:

• 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.

In order to achieve these aims, we ensure that children

• Develop knowledge and understanding of products past and present and also have an eye on the future;
• Use an increasing wide range of tools and materials to achieve their aims for every product;
• Learn about health and safety and protective measures;
• Have sufficient time to create products of a high standard;
• Explore the man-made world and discuss how technology impacts on our lives;
• Develop an interest in and understanding of products and the processes used to create them;
• Learn the principles of nutrition, healthy eating and how to cook.

Design and technology is taught in every class. Lessons are purposeful and highly practical. Children work both individually and in pairs or small groups depending on the task and we make use of technology, where appropriate, to promote a greater understanding of concepts and processes.

Units of work generally last for a half term and each unit repeats and develops the 'plan, make and evaluate' process, so that, by the end of their time at Deanesfield, children are able to think critically about products and evaluate how well they meet the demands of the user.