Hale CE Primary School- Curriculum Design- Design Technology 

Our vision is founded on Matthew 5: 14-16

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16)

At Hale CE Primary School, we believe that Design and Technology equips pupils with essential life skills that allow them to think creatively, solve problems and make informed decisions in an increasingly technological world. Through a bespoke Design and Technology curriculum, developed using a range of trusted sources including guidance from the Design and Technology Association, we inspire pupils to “Be the Light” by becoming resourceful, innovative and reflective designers and makers. Our curriculum enables pupils to design and create purposeful products while understanding the impact of design on everyday life and the wider world.

Be Ready

Be Respectful

Be Responsible

A Design and Technology curriculum that equips pupils with the knowledge, technical skills and design-thinking processes needed to design, make and evaluate products successfully. Pupils learn to generate ideas, explore materials and techniques, and apply skills progressively across food technology, structures, mechanisms, textiles and electrical systems, ensuring they are ready to tackle increasingly complex design challenges.

A Design and Technology curriculum that promotes respect for users, resources and the designed world. Pupils are taught to consider the needs, wants and values of others when designing products, to evaluate existing designs thoughtfully, and to work collaboratively, valuing the ideas and contributions of their peers. Sustainability, safety and careful use of materials are embedded throughout the curriculum.

A Design and Technology curriculum that encourages pupils to take responsibility for decision-making, problem solving and evaluation. Pupils learn to test ideas, reflect on their outcomes, and refine designs, understanding that failure and adaptation are essential parts of the design process. Through this, children develop resilience, independence and ownership of their learning. Also, it encourages pupils to be mindful and respectful of healthy food choices.

Curriculum Approach

Design and Technology at Hale CE Primary School is taught largely as a discrete subject, allowing pupils time and focus to develop specific design knowledge, technical skills and understanding. Where appropriate, meaningful cross-curricular links are planned to enhance learning and ensure relevance to real-life contexts.

Our bespoke DT curriculum has been carefully constructed using:

• The National Curriculum requirements for Design and Technology

• Guidance, principles and professional support from the Design and Technology Association

• School‑specific progression documents to meet the needs of our pupils and local context

Pupils engage in an iterative design process of designing, making and evaluating, developing an understanding of how products are created and refined. Teaching emphasises practical exploration, technical vocabulary, safe use of tools and reflective evaluation. Teachers guide pupils to make purposeful choices and understand how design decisions impact function, aesthetics and users.

Cooking and nutrition form an integral part of our Design and Technology curriculum. Pupils are taught how to prepare and cook a range of dishes using basic food preparation techniques, developing practical life skills alongside an understanding of healthy eating. They learn where food comes from, how ingredients are grown, reared or caught, and the principles of nutrition, enabling them to make informed and responsible choices about food throughout their lives.

Impact

The impact of our Design and Technology curriculum is measured through practical outcomes and reflective evaluation, including:

• Scrutiny of design portfolios and completed products

• Observational assessment of skills, collaboration and problem solving

• Pupil voice demonstrating confidence, creativity and understanding of the design process

• Key skills assessed through Insight Tracking system

By the time pupils leave Hale CE Primary School, they are confident designers who can articulate ideas, apply technical skills and evaluate their work thoughtfully. They understand how Design and Technology shapes the world around them and are prepared to approach future challenges with creativity, resilience and responsibility.