Design and Technology 

Design and Technology – Intent Statement

At Leigh St Mary’s we understand that there are essential characteristics that designers demonstrate. The intent of the design and technology curriculum from Early Years to Year 6 is to build these characteristics within our pupils.

The essential characteristics of designers are:

• Significant levels of originality and the willingness to take creative risks to produce innovative ideas and prototypes.
• An excellent attitude to learning and independent working.
• The ability to use time efficiently and work constructively and productively with others.
• The ability to carry out thorough research, show initiative and ask questions to develop and exceptionally detailed knowledge of users’ needs.
• The ability to act as responsible designers and makers, working ethically, using finite materials and working safely.
• A thorough knowledge of which tools, equipment and materials to use to make their products.
• The ability to apply mathematical knowledge.
• The ability to manage risks exceptionally well to manufacture products safely and hygienically.
• A passion for the subject and knowledge of up-to-date technological innovations in materials, products and systems.

(The Essentials Curriculum, Chris Quigley Education)

Implementation of Design and Technology:

Leigh St Mary’s implements the Design and Technology curriculum through following the Kapow curriculum design as a basis with elements taken from Chris Quigley education Curriculum Companions. This ensures a series of carefully crafted projects that allow pupils to engage in the entire design process - from researching and generating ideas to making prototypes and evaluating the final product. Teachers provide opportunities for pupils to work with a range of materials and tools, developing their technical skills and craftsmanship.

In addition to practical skills, our implementation focuses on teaching pupils about the importance of sustainability, health and safety, and the impact of design on society and the environment. We integrate cross-curricular links with subjects such as Science, Mathematics, and Computing to enhance the interdisciplinary nature of Design and Technology.

At Leigh St Mary’s we provide continuous professional development for staff to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver high-quality Design and Technology education. Our school also collaborates with external partners, such as industry experts and local businesses, to enrich the curriculum and provide real-world contexts for learning.

Leigh St Mary’s has chosen to follow Kapow as a basis for the Design and Technology as it has been designed as a spiral curriculum with the following key principles in mind:

✓ It is cyclical: Pupils return to the key strands again and again during their time in primary school.

✓ It has increasing depth: Each time the key strand is revisited it is covered with greater complexity.

✓ It build upon prior knowledge: Upon returning to each key strand, prior knowledge is utilised so pupils can build upon previous foundations, rather than starting again.

Impact of the Design and Technology Curriculum: 

Through our rigorous assessment and monitoring processes, we evaluate the impact of our Design and Technology curriculum on pupils' outcomes and progression. We celebrate pupils' achievements, showcasing their design work through exhibitions, competitions, and community events.

The impact of our curriculum is seen in the enthusiasm and motivation of our pupils towards Design and Technology. Pupils demonstrate confidence in their ability to tackle design challenges, communicate their ideas effectively, and collaborate with peers to achieve shared goals.

Furthermore, the impact of Design and Technology education extends beyond the classroom, shaping pupils' aspirations and equipping them with transferable skills that are valuable in the 21st century. Our pupils develop a sense of pride in their creative achievements and an appreciation for the role of design in the world around them.