EYFS
Throughout their time in EYFS, the children will be exposed to a range of tools and materials, whilst exploring a variety of different mediums. The children will be able to recognise different materials and their textures and will learn to construct designs on both a larger and smaller scale. They shall develop their fine motor skills to enable them to create more intricate designs and shall begin independently making choices on their own designs, materials and the tools that they use. The children will be encouraged to share their ideas and to begin thinking of ways in which they can adapt or expand upon these.
KS1
In KS1, the children shall begin learning and applying the design process. They shall learn to design with a purpose in mind and shall experience their ideas come to life, whilst learning about a variety of different mediums and the architects and inventors that inspired them. They shall learn to begin each design by sketching and annotating the correct materials that they intend to use. They shall design with a wide range of materials in mind and should be able to explain why they have chosen the ones they have selected. When creating or constructing their designs, the children will explore a range of utensils, tools and equipment to perform a job and shall experiment with a variety of different structures. The children shall develop a knowledge of mechanisms such as; the wheel, axels, levers and sliders and will learn how to create these effectively. Throughout the children’s design process, they shall evaluate what they like and dislike about their work and will be able to adapt their product in order to meet its purpose.
KS2
Building upon what they have learnt in KS1, the children shall expand their knowledge of design further by integrating their existing mathematical knowledge to add dimensions to their creations. The children will carry out independent research when designing their products for a purpose and will create prototypes before completing the final product. The children will learn to explain the purposes of the different tools and equipment that they choose to use and should be able to explain to others how to use them effectively. The children will expand upon their knowledge of mechanisms to create cams, pulleys and gears and shall improve upon their finishing and decorative techniques. Upon completing their product, the children shall learn to evaluate the design’s strengths, weaknesses and whether it is indeed fit for purpose.
