Purpose and Aims of the Subject
Design and Technology is an inspiring and practical subject that encourages pupils to be creative problem-solvers. Through designing, making and evaluating, children learn how to develop ideas and create products that solve real and relevant problems.
At Adderley Primary School, Design and Technology aims to:
- Develop pupils’ creativity, innovation and imagination
- Build practical skills in designing, making and evaluating products
- Encourage pupils to think about real-world problems and user needs
- Help children understand nutrition, healthy eating and food preparation
- Develop knowledge of materials, structures, mechanisms and textiles
Using the Kapow Primary scheme, the curriculum ensures progression in knowledge and skills from Year 1 to Year 6, building pupils’ confidence and independence as designers and makers.
How the Subject is Taught in Practice
Design and Technology is taught through carefully sequenced units from the Kapow Primary scheme. Each unit follows the design–make–evaluate process and focuses on a specific area of DT.
Across the school, pupils explore the following areas:
- Mechanisms (e.g. sliders, levers, wheels and axles)
- Structures (designing and building stable structures)
- Textiles (joining fabrics and creating textile products)
- Cooking and nutrition (preparing healthy dishes and learning about food)
- Electrical systems (introduced in upper Key Stage 2)
- Digital and mechanical control (in more complex design projects)
Children are encouraged to talk about their ideas, collaborate with peers and reflect on their work, helping to build confidence in explaining their thinking and design decisions.
Outcomes of the Curriculum and Assessment
Through the Design and Technology curriculum, pupils develop:
- Practical making skills
- Technical knowledge of materials, mechanisms and structures
- Understanding of healthy eating and food preparation
- Confidence in evaluating and improving their work
Assessment takes place throughout each unit and focuses on pupils’ ability to:
- Generate and communicate design ideas
- Select appropriate tools and materials
- Apply technical knowledge and skills
- Evaluate and improve their products
Teachers use ongoing assessment to monitor progress and ensure pupils are developing the key knowledge and skills outlined in the Kapow Primary curriculum.
By the end of Year 6, pupils leave primary school with the skills and confidence to design, create and evaluate products independently, preparing them for further learning in Design and Technology.
You can download our curriculum plans here: