Design & Technology – Curriculum Intention
At Thoresby, we value Design and Technology as a subject that nurtures and grows pupils’ creativity and ability to innovate, in addition to teaching them about the design and made world, how things work and how to make functional products themselves. We see it as an integral element of STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths). The cooking and nutrition element gives strong foundations in the pupils’ understanding of where food comes from and what constitutes a healthy diet.
We follow the National Curriculum in what to teach and draw from research about enquiry learning approaches in how to teach it.
Rationale for the Design and Technology curriculum at Thoresby
We take into account;
-The pupils’ past curriculum experience, including the impact of COVID on their earlier technological knowledge
-The context of the local area being a national hub in the sustainable energy industry (including Siemens Wind Turbine manufacturing)
– Topical and relevant international debate around the environment including taking food ‘miles’ and seasonality into account when making food choices and the use of fossil fuels in industry and transport.
Pupils have ample opportunities to collaborate, make decisions, problem solve and reflect. All aspects that help form a platform for future learning and success.
DETERMINING THE IMPACT OF THE DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY CURRICULUM
The impact is determined simply by the extent to which pupils get better at Design and Technology. We measure this by;
* How effectively they are able to evaluate existing products and establish design criteria
* Their ability to use different sources of information to carry out deeper research to inform their own designs
*How well they produce increasingly sophisticated sketches, design plans, diagrams and use technology such as CAD
*Their ability to draw on prior knowledge when making choices about the materials they will use, equipment and tools they select when making their products
*How well they are able to evaluate their own products and those of others in relation to design criteria
Additional support, resources and information:
All three of my children have been taught at Thoresby with my youngest leaving this year. I have fond memories of Thoresby over the years and found staff helpful and very supportive.
My daughter has had a fantastic education at Thoresby and her teachers have supported her emotional development as well.
It’s a great school. My child is settled and any problems are dealt with quickly.
I think Thoresby is a very good school. My boys always enjoy coming to school. The teachers are very helpful ad friendly.
Thoresby gives us opportunities to spend time with the coaches and develop our sports skills.
I adore the nursery and the different learning areas. I really appreciate the kitchen making specials treats and meals for children with allergies.
I would like to say that both our children – daughter in year 4 and son in year 6, enjoy attending their lessons and their topics they are being taught.
Thoresby management team ensure that the school is inclusive and forward thinking. I have always been impressed by the way this school is run and continue to be – especially their dedication to child protection and wellbeing programmes.
Thoresby helps us to learn that we are all unique and special in our own way.
I feel the school is a blessing for parents who have the opportunity to send their kids here as they provide the best education and pastoral care possible.
Everybody is welcome at Thoresby.
Thoresby is an amazing school and the best aspect of the school are the brilliant selfless teachers who put the children at the forefront of everything.
The teachers are supportive, honest and provide help and encouragement to all needs of the children and parents.
My son and daughter are both very happy at Thoresby. The staff are approachable and helpful and the children are offered a good variety of different opportunities.
This school offers varied education in an environment with so many children from so many parts of the world, and do it very well you see happy smiling children every day! Hats off to this school!
Thorersby combines academics, crafts and sport to bring out the best in their students. Good Job!
My daughter really loves going to Thoresby. She is doing brilliantly and I am beyond grateful that she goes to such a good school.
Our son has been coming here for 8 years. He will be doing his SATs soon. He loves coming here and loves the food. He has so many friends and loves all his classes too. He gets on well with everybody and all his teachers have been brilliant with him. Thoresby is a good school.
Excellent communication from the school. Amiable, knowledgeable and caring staff. A strong school with an impressive ethos.
Both of my daughters have thrived since coming to Thoresby. I am so pleased with their progress.
The support from the teaching staff is very good and the pastoral care of our children, especially when needed for our son. Overall very positive.
Thoresby gives me the opportunity to have a great education. The topics are great!
I think Thoresby is an amazing school. The teachers are approachable and my son loves school.
Our daughter started Thoresby in September 2018 – she has grown in confidence and the support from her teachers is constant. We are very happy with everything the school offers and provides.
My daughter has been coming here since nursery and has always loved the school, she is doing really well in all her subjects and I couldn’t be happier with her progress.
Thoresby gives me the opportunity to have a great education. The topics are great!
Thoresby is a brilliant school and my kids love coming here.
My daughter started in September and she has flourished. Not only in an academic sense but in terms of her social skills and her open-mindedness to others – it’s been a fantastic experience for her!
Our son is absolutely thriving at Thoresby. He has really got on well with his teachers and enjoyed lessons. If asked he would say the dinners are best but his progress speaks for itself. Thank you.
We are very happy with Thoresby, lovely staff and teachers.
Thoresby gives me the opportunity to have a great education. The topics are great!
Thoresby is a special place.
My daughter is making great progress at Thoresby. Overall I am very pleased with every aspect.
Exceptional! So supportive. Staff go above and beyond for both of my children and it is much appreciated.
My daughter enjoys all aspects of school life, she involves herself in many activities and represents the school in various team sports. We are pleased with all her progress.
Thoresby has been brilliant for my boys, really supportive and encouraging.
The outside area is so much fun!
Thoresby is amazing! Everyone is made to feel welcome and part of the community. I’m so happy that my son gets to attend this school.
I am proud to be part of the Thoresby community.
My son has loved attending Thoresby. He takes the Thoresby values with him and has turned into a lovely boy. I know the school has contributed to him.
We love Thoresby. Both of our girls go there and have had a fantastic time. It is very supportive and nurturing.
It has a really supportive, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. It is inclusive and family orientated.
We are lucky to have Kaleidoscope every year! We learn so much and everyone comes together for a celebration.
My children are very happy at school.