Construction

As with other CLASP subjects, Construction is underpinned by the National Curriculum programme of study for Design and Technology. In all units, children are guided through the evaluation of existing products, research into product use and finally their own design. All designs are brought to life over the course of the unit and evaluated at the end based on the brief used at the start.

Because the groups are so small, the teachers can take the children beyond what would be expected at primary level. Children use a range of materials and tools; progress can been seen across the key stage where in Year 6, children work more independently using equipment such as hand saws, hand drills and hammers to put together their work. The units in CLASP also often bring together other subjects areas such as Science, Maths and Art and Design and always link closely to the topic the children are following back in their own class.

This year in Construction, our Year 3 children explored recycling and sustainability by designing and creating their own photo frames using recycled materials. They investigated existing products, discussed how materials could be reused, and developed their own designs before carefully constructing and decorating their finished frames. Throughout the project, children learned how to strengthen their structures and considered both the appearance and function of their products.

Meanwhile, our Year 4 children explored pneumatics and simple mechanisms by designing and making pneumatic monsters. Using net shapes, they constructed three-dimensional models before incorporating pneumatic systems powered by air pressure to create movement. The children investigated how pneumatic mechanisms work, tested different designs and solved problems throughout the building process. Their final monsters demonstrated both creativity and a growing understanding of engineering and design technology principles.

Here are some photographs showing the children investigating, designing, making and evaluating their finished products.