Intent: What are we aiming for?
Our Design & Technology (D&T) curriculum aims to help children think and work like designers and makers. Pupils learn how to identify problems, plan and design solutions, make products and evaluate what they have done. They also gain technical knowledge about materials, mechanisms, structures, cooking and nutrition, electrical systems and digital tools. Lessons build curiosity, practical problem-solving and creative thinking. This supports our Creativity value (exploring ideas and making things), Adventure (trying new techniques), Openness (sharing thinking and feedback) and Excellence (high-quality outcomes and confident learners).
Implementation: How is Design & Technology taught?
D&T is taught through well-planned units where children regularly revisit key skills and knowledge in a spiral curriculum so learning builds over time. Most schools plan D&T for about an hour weekly or alternate it with other subjects. Lessons are structured with short recall, an engaging start, hands-on work and reflection. Teachers have clear guidance and support including videos and printable resources to help them teach confidently—even if they are not D&T specialists. Activities include individual and group work, practical making and discussing ideas. This approach reflects Creativity (hands-on design), Openness (explaining ideas), Adventure (exploring materials) and Excellence (strong teacher support).
Impact: What do children gain?
Children develop a range of practical and thinking skills that help them make purposeful products and solve real problems. Pupils build knowledge about how things work, how materials behave and how to develop and improve their ideas. Teachers check learning through questioning, quizzes, knowledge organisers and project outcomes so pupils remember more over time. Children can talk confidently about their work and explain design choices. The curriculum also builds confidence and resilience, preparing pupils for future learning and real-world challenges. This reflects our values of Excellence (deep understanding and skill), Openness (evaluating work and listening to feedback), Creativity(innovating solutions) and Adventure (embracing new design challenges).