‘Design and Technology prepares pupils to participate in tomorrow’s rapidly changing technologies. They learn and intervene creatively to improve quality of life’.

National Curriculum 1999

Design and technology contributes to pupils becoming successful learners by developing enquiring minds. Pupils are encouraged to try out alternatives and fresh approaches when engaging in assignments to design and make products. These assignments provide broad opportunities to enjoy applying knowledge to practical activities. Pupils are motivated to use learning from other subjects as they process information that will help with their designing.

As pupils respond creatively to design briefs they analyse and reflect critically on products and then put forward constructive explanations for improving their own work. When evaluating and modifying their proposals, learners invite feedback, consider different points of view and incorporate insights gained. Pupils understand how to learn from their mistakes as they reflect critically when modifying their proposals.

Design and technology encourages pupils to communicate and model original and innovative design ideas visually, orally and in writing, using ICT as appropriate. During focused tasks, and in particular when analysing products, pupils imagine new approaches to designing and making, learning independently and with others.