Intent
At St Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary School, our Design and Technology curriculum is designed to nurture curiosity, creativity and problem-solving in every child. We want pupils to understand how design influences everyday life and how products are shaped by function, user needs and sustainability. Through carefully sequenced learning in textiles, mechanisms, structures, electrical systems and cooking, pupils develop secure knowledge and practical skills that build progressively year on year. Our curriculum inspires pupils to think critically, take risks, refine their ideas and become confident designers who recognise the potential of innovation to improve the world around them.
Implementation
Design and Technology is taught through a carefully sequenced curriculum that progressively develops technical knowledge, practical skills and creative thinking from Early Years to Year 6. Pupils follow the design, make and evaluate process across a range of projects, developing increasing confidence, precision and independence. Teachers use explicit modelling, high-quality questioning, practical demonstrations and ambitious subject vocabulary to build understanding. Learning is adapted through appropriate scaffolds and support so that all pupils can succeed in practical activities. Assessment is ongoing through observation, discussion, evaluation and the review of pupils’ completed work, informing future teaching and ensuring progression.
Impact
We believe our children will:
- Develop a secure understanding of the design process and apply it confidently across a range of contexts.
- Acquire the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to design, make, test and refine products effectively.
- Understand how thoughtful design and innovation can respond to real-life needs and solve problems.
- Become resourceful, reflective and resilient learners who collaborate effectively, evaluate their work critically and approach new challenges with confidence and imagination.