Design and Technology

 We are Creative Thinkers, Problem-Solvers, and Skilled Makers

Design and Technology (D&T) helps us learn how to design, make, and evaluate products using real-world knowledge and practical skills. It’s a subject where we use creativity, engineering, and science to solve problems and build useful things.

What We Learn:

• Technical Knowledge and Practical Skills
  We learn how to use tools, materials, and techniques to make things that work.

• Creative Problem-Solving
  We think like engineers and designers to solve challenges using smart ideas.

• Food and Nutrition
  We learn how to prepare food safely and understand what makes a healthy diet.

• Mechanical and Electrical Systems
  We explore how things move, light up, and connect using circuits, switches, and motors.

• Environmental Awareness
  We use recycled materials and think about how to design in eco-friendly ways.

EYFS Foundations

• In Early Years, we begin to:

  • Cut, shape, and join materials using simple tools
  • Explore different materials like paper, fabric, and wood
  • Learn about food through cooking and tasting
  • Plan and change our designs through play and discussion

What Happens in a D&T Lesson?

1. Activating Prior Knowledge
   We remember what we’ve learned before and connect it to new ideas.

2. Vocabulary and Disciplinary Knowledge
   We learn technical words and understand design principles like stability and precision.

3. Design and Modelling
   We sketch, annotate, and plan using templates and prototypes.

4. Making and Practical Application
   We build and test our designs using tools and materials.

5. Evaluation and Refinement
   We assess our work, suggest improvements, and reflect on what we’ve made.

Our Curriculum Structure

We follow the CUSP Design and Technology Curriculum, which includes:

• Mechanisms – Levers, pulleys, gears, and axles
• Structures – Stability, strength, and material choices
• Food and Nutrition – Cooking skills and healthy eating
• Textiles – Weaving, stitching, and fabric design
• Electrical Systems – Circuits, switches, and motors
• Material Knowledge – Properties, suitability, and sustainability

How We Show Progress

• Sketchbooks and Portfolios – Showing our planning and design thinking
• Practical Demonstrations – Using tools and materials safely and effectively
• Vocabulary and Oracy – Explaining our ideas clearly using technical language
• Product Evaluation – Judging how well our designs work and how to improve them

Art and Design

Developing Creative Thinkers, Skilled Artists, and Critical Observers

At Fonthill, we believe art and design are essential for nurturing creativity, problem-solving, and self-expression from the early years onward.

Our CUSP Art and Design Curriculum provides a clear, progressive structure that helps pupils:

• Master techniques in drawing, painting, printmaking, textiles, 3D work, and collage
• Explore and evaluate art from different times, cultures, and styles
• Express ideas with purpose, using critical thinking and storytelling
• Build mastery through retrieval and practice, deepening skills and independence

We aim to equip pupils with the confidence and artistic knowledge to thrive in secondary school and beyond.

EYFS Foundations

In EYFS, art is embedded in “Creating with Materials” within Expressive Arts and Design. Children learn to:

• Explore materials like paint, clay, and textiles
• Develop early mark-making and drawing skills
• Mix colours and experiment with texture and shape
• Express themselves through imaginative play and artwork

This early exposure builds creativity and confidence before Key Stage 1.

A Structured Curriculum

Our curriculum is organised into blocks covering:

• Drawing – Line, tone, proportion, and observation
• Painting – Colour theory, brushwork, and texture
• Printmaking – Relief, monoprinting, and cultural patterns
• Textiles & Collage – Layering, mixed media, and sustainability
• 3D Work – Sculpture, construction, and spatial awareness
• Creative Response – Personal expression and thematic exploration

Lesson Structure

Each CUSP lesson includes:

1. Activating Prior Knowledge – Revisiting techniques and styles
2. Vocabulary & Concepts – Learning artistic terms and ideas
3. Modelling & Teaching – Demonstrating new skills
4. Independent Application – Creating and refining artwork
5. Reflection & Evaluation – Discussing and improving work

Assessment & Enrichment

We assess progress through sketchbooks, vocabulary use, final pieces, and peer/self-evaluation. Pupils also take part in the CUSP Art Festival, showcasing work and meeting artists.

Art is a valued part of our school culture, enriching learning and celebrating creativity across all phases.

We always like to share our learning on Dojo! Here are some examples!