Design Technology

Design Technology Intent

The DT curriculum at Kenmont Primary School aims to foster creative, innovative thinkers who can thrive in an ever changing world. Our objectives include fulfilling the National Curriculum requirements for design and technology, offering a well-rounded curriculum, and progressively enhancing students’ technical and practical skills. We encourage children to engage in imaginative design and exploration, allowing them to solve problems and create models linked to cross-curricular topics. Students build on their skills year after year, such that they are able to consider more complex design language and systems as they progress through the school. They learn to construct functional structures using a variety of materials and tools while exploring techniques such as stitching, cooking, and construction. Our cross-curricular method deepens students’ understanding of design and technology and also equips them with essential life skills, such as the importance of healthy eating and foundational engineering concepts. We aspire for our students to become proficient in various crafts, developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities essential for their future.

 Design Technology Implementation and Impact

The DT curriculum at Kenmont Primary School is grounded in National Curriculum objectives, ensuring skill progression from EYFS to Year 6. Lessons combine whole-class instruction with small group activities, where they allow for children to explore various materials and tools. Each KS1 and KS2 class participates in three DT units per academic year, culminating in a final product.

Our approach includes differentiated planning to ensure accessibility for all students. DT lessons promote problem-solving, often linking to Science, encouraging children to make connections between topics. The design, make, and evaluate cycle guides our planning, exposing students to real-life examples and inspiring discussions about notable designers.

Before creating their products, children practice essential skills, such as cutting playdough or stitching, with teacher demonstrations on tool safety. After completing their projects, students reflect on successes and areas for improvement, engaging in self and peer-assessment to develop their critical thinking and observational skills.

The impact of this at Kenmont, is that each year children will know more, remember more and understand more about DT. Our DT curriculum enables and encourages the children at Kenmont to become problem solvers and learn to take risks. This is particularly appropriate given the constant changes and advances in technology in the wider world. Through studying current designs and learning to think critically, children are able to analyse product and are given opportunities to redesign or alter their own products based on its success. These skills that the children develop can be used beyond school and into adulthood. Pupils have high level of engagement and enjoyment, which is evident through pupil voice.

Progression of skills and knowledge

Our ‘DT subject progression of skills and knowledge ‘ document gives further information about what the children are taught in this subject by year group.

DT progression of skills and knowledge

Design and Technology Long term plan

DT National Curriculum

If you would like to know more, please visit DT National Curriculum