Intent
In KS2, pupils learn about the importance of good design and how to communicate their own ideas whilst working to a design brief. In the workshop they turn their designs into functional products from plastic, card and fabric and learn how to use tools and other equipment safely.
Transition to KS3 means smaller design technology classes as pupils improve their practical skills, gaining confidence in the workshop using a wider range of materials, techniques, equipment and machinery. This is also a time where they have the opportunity to work more independently in the food room, following recipes, developing knife skills and creating dish using a wide variety of ingredients, equipment and cooking methods. Finally, they are introduced into the world of textiles to gain a good understanding of the impact the textiles industry has on the environment. They explore; fabrics, printing, embroidery, different dying methods and develop their creative thinking to create functional products.
Implementation
In KS2 and KS3 Food technology pupils follow a practical, hands-on, broad curriculum aimed at developing their knowledge of food and nutrition and cooking and preparation skills. Health and safety, nutrition, healthy eating, cutting and using a knife, preparation and cooking skills are the foundation of all work. There is also an emphasis on seasonality and understanding where our food comes from. Pupils record their understanding in books, watch cooking demonstrations, do taste testing on a range of food from other cultures and countries and follow recipes to explore different cooking methods.
The product design curriculum in KS2 allows pupils to explore their creative thinking by designing products which appeal to their age range. They develop their fine motor skills by exploring a wide range of materials and techniques to make successful products. The develop knowledge of the design process and the importance of working to a design brief and specification. In KS3 pupils have first-hand experience of developing workshop skills including sawing, filing, sanding by hand and in providing opportunities to use the free-standing machines for drilling, sanding and cutting. Over the two years, pupils are involved in practical workshop activities that lead to improved use of all tools and techniques as they design products that can be made from plywood, MDF and acrylic. Pupils use knowledge gained through the use of various materials to explore techniques, to improve their skills and to create and analyse products. There is a continual emphasis on 3-D drawing skills to design and develop ideas that can be made into functional and purposeful products.
In KS3 pupils gain an understanding of how to use different textiles techniques to create functional textiles products. Pupils are challenged to think creatively by exploring and experiment with texture, pattern, dyes, sewing machines, batik and yarns. Pupils are taught how to sew, embellish, and manipulate fabrics, pupils then use these skills to design and create a purposeful textiles product.