Design & Technology

At Isle of Ely Primary School, Design and Technology is an inspiring and practical subject where pupils use creativity and imagination to design and make products that solve real problems.

They draw on knowledge from subjects such as maths, science, engineering, computing and art. Pupils learn to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative and capable citizens. By evaluating past and present designs, they gain a critical understanding of design’s impact on daily life and the wider world. High-quality D&T education contributes to the creativity, culture and well-being of society.

Aims and Objectives

Our aims and objectives, drawn from the National Curriculum for Design and Technology, ensure that all pupils develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to thrive in an increasingly technological world. Pupils build and apply a strong foundation of knowledge, understanding and skills to design and make high-quality prototypes and products for a range of users. They are encouraged to critique, evaluate and test their own ideas, products and the work of others. Children learn to select appropriate tools, explore different techniques and follow safe working procedures. They begin to understand the characteristics of various materials and the use of simple mechanisms. In addition, pupils learn about nutrition and develop cooking skills. Overall, our aim is for all pupils to acquire and apply their designing and making skills with confidence in a stimulating and supportive learning environment.

Implementation

At Isle of Ely, we teach Design and Technology using the Kapow scheme of work, which provides a clear and comprehensive structure aligned with the National Curriculum. This approach ensures progression of skills, consistency across the school, and supports both teachers and pupils in developing strong subject knowledge. The Design and Technology curriculum is fully planned for within the EYFS, KS1 and KS2, ensuring full coverage while also allowing flexibility to deepen knowledge and introduce additional skills when appropriate.

Kapow covers the five main areas of Design and Technology: Structures, Mechanisms, Electrical Systems (KS2 only), Cooking and Nutrition, and Textiles. Each area forms the focus of a topic in every year group and is taught through four key strands: Design, Make, Evaluate and Technical Knowledge.

Children are taught a range of skills with a strong emphasis on health and safety. Cross-curricular links enrich learning and provide opportunities for pupils to apply their skills in meaningful, practical contexts. Throughout the school, Design and Technology displays showcase pupils’ three-dimensional creations, celebrating creativity, excellence and the use of key vocabulary.

Pupils are encouraged to work both independently and collaboratively. Independent tasks allow them to take ownership of their learning and problem-solve creatively, while group projects promote teamwork, communication and shared achievement.

Impact

Our carefully structured Design and Technology curriculum goes beyond the National Curriculum, helping to build cultural capital and develop life skills such as innovation and entrepreneurship. Pupils gain enjoyment and confidence in DT, which they can apply across other areas of the curriculum.

Through this approach, children will know more, remember more, and understand more about Design and Technology, demonstrating their knowledge through practical use of tools and skills both in school and beyond. Most pupils are expected to achieve age-related expectations, while all will develop skills and attributes that prepare them for life beyond school.