Design Technology

As part of their Early Learning Goals, children safely use and explore a variety of materials, tools and techniques, expressing their ideas, thoughts and feelings by experimenting with colour, design, texture, form and function. They use a range of everyday technology including PCs and iPads to record their work.

Children are introduced to a variety of new skills and use a range of materials such as fabrics, easy to handle wood, card and boxes. They use tools and resources such as hack saws, hand drills, split pins, masking tape and glue to cut, join and shape their products. Children learn about which foods are healthier than others and combine a range of ingredients to prepare simple dishes.

Children look at existing products and use annotated designs to plan products for a range of purposes. They increase their knowledge of how to use a wider variety of tools and materials as well as other components to control product mechanisms. Children learn about how foods are processed and use a heat source to prepare savoury dishes.

Children use research and think about specific function and purpose when designing their products. They use pattern pieces and prototypes to work with increasing accuracy and are encouraged to use more complex tools and materials independently. Children also use computer technology when designing and controlling their products.