Design Technology
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“Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” — Steve Jobs
Design and Technology is a creative and practical subject that encourages pupils to think innovatively and solve real-world problems. Through hands-on learning, pupils use their imagination, knowledge and technical skills to design and create products that meet the needs of different users and purposes.
Our Design and Technology curriculum inspires curiosity, creativity and confidence, enabling pupils to explore ideas, take risks and learn from the design process. Pupils develop the ability to research, plan, design, make and evaluate products while building resilience and problem-solving skills.
The Design and Technology curriculum intends to:
- Encourage imagination, inspire creativity and enthuse pupils to be curious about all aspects of Design and Technology
- Develop problem-solving skills beyond their ability, work independently and understand that the choices of materials and processes have a wider social, moral and economic implications.
- Prepare pupils to have the resources to effectively equip them for the challenges of future life with creativity, passion and aspirations which enable them to thrive in the jobs of the future.
Through engaging projects, pupils learn how to apply their knowledge across a range of contexts, making meaningful links with science, mathematics and literacy. They also develop an understanding of sustainability, materials and responsible design choices, helping them to consider how design and technology can positively impact the wider world.
We aim to equip pupils with the practical skills, creativity and critical thinking needed to become innovative and informed designers of the future.
The Essential Characteristics of a Witham Designer
At The Priory Witham Academy, our ambition for all pupils is for them to master the following characteristics:
- The ability to use time efficiently and work constructively and productively with others.
- An ability to find a solution for a problem.
- An excellent attitude to learning and independent working.
- Significant levels of originality and the willingness to take creative risks to produce innovative ideas and prototypes.
- A passion for the subject and knowledge of up-to-date technological innovations in materials, products and systems.
- The ability to carry out thorough research, show initiative and ask questions to develop an exceptionally detailed knowledge of users’ needs.
- The ability to act as responsible designers and makers, working ethically, using finite materials carefully and working safely.
- A thorough knowledge of which tools, equipment and materials to use to make their products.
- The ability to apply mathematical and scientific knowledge.
- The ability to manage risks exceptionally well to manufacture products safely and hygienically.