Design & Technology

Intent

At Dovedale Primary, our Design & Technology curriculum aims to inspire all pupils—including those with SEND and vulnerable groups—to think creatively, take risks, and develop practical skills through the design process: ideation, creation, and evaluation.

We want children to understand how design and technology shape the world and build the confidence to become innovative, resourceful, and capable creators. By learning from past and present designers, they develop a critical understanding of how design affects daily life and the wider world.

Implementation

DT is taught through a structured cycle of design, make, and evaluate, with each stage underpinned by technical knowledge and vocabulary.

·  Explore: Pupils explore and evaluate existing products

·  Design: Projects are based in real-life, meaningful contexts.

·  Create: Pupils use specific skills and have the freedom to choose materials and tools when creating their own product.

·  Evaluate: Children reflect on their work against clear design criteria and skills used when creating.

Food and nutrition is taught annually, focusing on safety, cultural awareness, and healthy eating. Evidence of learning is recorded in DT folders or class books, showing clear progression across year groups. All aspects of DT are given equal importance to ensure a balanced and high-quality experience.

Impact

Children’s understanding and skills are assessed continuously by teachers and more formally each term. This informs planning and support and helps track progress across the school. The subject leader monitors impact through book looks, pupil voice, and evaluation of outcomes.

Through DT at Dovedale, pupils will:

·  Understand and work with a range of materials and tools.

·  Practise subject specific skills and apply practical and technical knowledge to create purposeful, high-quality products.

·  Use and understand design vocabulary confidently.

·  Develop cultural awareness and healthy habits through cooking and nutrition.

·  Recognise the social and environmental impact of design choices.

·  Reflect and evaluate their work, identifying areas for improvement and the effectiveness of the skills they used.