Design and Technology
At Bassingbourn, we want pupils to become creative problem-solvers who design and make products that work and that people want to use. Through design and technology, pupils combine practical skills with what they learn in science, maths, computing and art.
How we teach design and technology
We teach design and technology using the Kapow Primary scheme of work, which is fully aligned with the National Curriculum. Units are taught in focused blocks alongside art and design across the year. Our classes are mixed-age, so units follow a two-year rolling programme.
In Reception, design and technology is part of Expressive Arts and Design, as children build, cook and make, often through play in the provision.
What pupils learn
Every project follows the same cycle: pupils design a product for a user and purpose, make it and then evaluate how well it works. Across the school, projects cover:
-
Structures
-
Mechanisms and mechanical systems
-
Textiles
-
Cooking and nutrition
-
Electrical systems
-
Digital world, programming products with micro:bits
Through cooking and nutrition, pupils learn where food comes from, how to eat healthily and how to prepare food safely and hygienically.
Design and technology for every pupil
In design and technology, practical, hands-on projects give every pupil the chance to succeed. Teachers model each step, and pupils use templates and pre-measured materials where helpful. Lessons are adapted for pupils with SEND, so they can take part safely and fully. For those ready for more challenge, teachers encourage more ambitious design criteria, original ideas and more complex mechanisms or code.
Beyond the classroom
This year, we are launching our first STEAM Week, where pupils bring design and technology together with science, art and maths through creative projects. Each summer, children in Reception to Year 2 take part in an invention challenge, using what they have learnt to solve a problem of their own.
Useful documents
Design and Technology Curriculum Overview
Design and Technology at a Glance
National Curriculum: Design and Technology
