Design and technology
Our vision
At Hobletts Manor Infants and Nursery School, design and technology enables children to become purposeful, creative and confident problem-solvers. Children learn that products are designed for particular users and purposes and that designers, engineers and makers can positively influence the world around them.
We encourage children to explore ideas, make decisions, test solutions and learn from designs that do not work as expected.
What children learn
In Nursery and Reception, children explore materials, tools, construction and joining through play and direct teaching. Construction, junk modelling, moving toys and large-scale building help children plan ideas, make choices and solve practical problems.
In Years 1 and 2, children develop their technical knowledge through designing, making and evaluating. They learn to:
Children explore structures, mechanisms, construction, materials and textiles. They learn about levers, sliders, wheels and axles and investigate how to make structures stronger, stiffer and more stable. Through cooking and nutrition, they learn about a healthy and varied diet and where food comes from.
How learning develops
In Years 1 and 2, designing becomes increasingly purposeful. Children consider the user and purpose before making a product. Teachers model new techniques and provide focused practical tasks before children apply their learning more independently.
Important knowledge, vocabulary and practical skills are revisited in increasingly demanding contexts.
Inclusion and enrichment
Adapted tools, visual instructions, Widgit symbols, modelling and alternative methods of recording help every child, including children with SEND, participate successfully.
Children encounter significant buildings, structures, products, designers, builders and engineers. Sewing, cooking, woodwork and working with visitors help them recognise design and technology as a real-world discipline. Sustainability is considered where it is relevant to the product, materials and purpose.
By the end of Year 2
Children can identify a user and purpose, communicate a design, select suitable tools and materials, make a functional product and evaluate how well it works. They understand that testing and improvement are important parts of designing.