Wosley House Primary School

Design and Technology Curriculum Statement

Introduction

At Wosley House Primary School, our Design and Technology (DT) curriculum aims to inspire creativity, curiosity and practical problem-solving skills in all children. We believe that DT provides opportunities for pupils to design, make and evaluate products that solve real-world problems, while developing resilience, critical thinking and independence.

Our DT curriculum is designed to:

• Encourage pupils to think creatively and innovatively.
• Provide opportunities to develop practical skills using a range of tools, materials, and techniques.
• Promote understanding of functional and aesthetic design, considering the purpose and audience.
• Foster healthy and safe approaches to cooking and nutrition.
• Develop an understanding of mechanical, electrical and structural concepts, as well as how materials can be combined for effect.

We aim for every child to experience a broad and balanced DT curriculum, building progressively on skills and knowledge from Year 1 to Year 6.

At Wosley House Primary School, DT is implemented through:

Skills-based, progressive curriculum

• DT learning is planned across key stages, with a clear progression in designing, making, evaluating, technical knowledge and cooking & nutrition.
• Pupils are given opportunities to explore and experiment before moving on to more complex projects.
• Curriculum planning is linked to cross-curricular themes where appropriate (e.g., science, computing, art, and maths).

Hands-on, practical learning experiences

• Pupils use a wide range of tools and materials safely and appropriately.

• Projects include designing and making products such as mechanical models, textiles, structures and food dishes.
• Pupils are encouraged to test, modify and refine their designs using prototypes.

Evaluation and reflection

• Evaluation is integral to all projects. Pupils learn to assess their own work and that of others, reflecting on success criteria, functionality, aesthetics and user experience.

• Pupils are guided to suggest improvements and understand why certain materials or techniques are chosen.

Cooking and nutrition

• Pupils learn about healthy eating, food preparation and hygiene.

• They apply these skills in practical cooking projects that increase in complexity with age.

 

The intended impact of the DT curriculum at Wosley House Primary School is that pupils will:

• Develop confidence and independence in using tools, materials and techniques.
• Demonstrate creativity and innovation in designing and making products.
• Evaluate effectively, understanding strengths, limitations and areas for improvement.
• Apply knowledge of technical concepts, such as mechanisms, structures and electrical systems, in practical contexts.
• Make informed, healthy choices in cooking and nutrition.
• Leave primary school with a lifelong appreciation for DT, ready to apply practical, problem-solving skills across the curriculum and in everyday life.