As St Nic’s Design Technologists we explore, we design and we create
At St Nicholas C of E Primary School, we believe that Design and Technology is an inspiring, practical and creative subject that encourages children to become confident problem-solvers and innovative thinkers. Through designing, making and evaluating, pupils learn how ideas can be transformed into purposeful products that improve lives and solve real-world problems.
Our Design and Technology curriculum nurtures creativity, curiosity and resilience whilst developing the courage to take risks, learn from mistakes and refine ideas. As pupils progress through the school, they build the knowledge, skills and technical vocabulary needed to become successful designers and makers, applying their learning in meaningful and engaging contexts.
Rooted in our Christian vision to Aim high, be courageous, show love, Design and Technology provides opportunities for children to think ambitiously, persevere when faced with challenges and consider how their designs can positively impact others and the wider world. Through collaboration and thoughtful design, pupils learn to value different perspectives, work effectively with others and create with purpose.
Our progressive curriculum develops children's understanding of:
- Structures and mechanisms
- Textiles
- Food and nutrition
- Electrical systems
- Design processes
- Technical knowledge
- Evaluation and improvement
- Significant designers, innovators and engineers
Children revisit and build upon prior learning from EYFS to Year 6, enabling them to know more, remember more and make connections across different projects and areas of learning.
Design, Make, Evaluate
Design and Technology at St Nicholas follows a cyclical process that encourages children to think creatively and critically:
Explore
Children investigate existing products, materials and design solutions. They consider how products are used, who they are designed for and how they could be improved.
Design
Children generate ideas, develop design criteria and communicate their thinking through discussion, drawings and plans. They learn to consider function, purpose, aesthetics and the needs of users.
Create
Children select tools, materials and techniques to make high-quality products. They learn practical skills, solve problems and adapt their work as challenges arise.
Evaluate
Children reflect on their designs and finished products, considering what worked well and what could be improved. Through evaluation, they develop resilience and learn that mistakes are an important part of the design process.
Real-Life Learning
Design and Technology naturally draws upon learning from a range of subjects including:
- Mathematics
- Science
- Computing
- Art and Design
- Engineering
Through meaningful projects and the St Nicholas Journey, pupils apply their knowledge to authentic purposes and audiences. They learn that good design can improve everyday life, solve practical problems and make a positive difference to people and communities.
Inclusion for All
We are committed to ensuring that every child succeeds in Design and Technology. Through inclusive practice, adaptive teaching and high expectations, all pupils, including those with SEND, are supported to access the curriculum and achieve success. We believe every child can be a designer, creator and problem-solver.
What Makes DT Special at St Nicholas?
As St Nic's Design Technologists:
We explore ideas, products and possibilities.
We design with creativity, purpose and care.
We create solutions that make a difference.
By developing curiosity, resilience and innovation, we prepare our children to become thoughtful designers, confident learners and responsible citizens who are ready to shape the future.
At St Nicholas, we aim high, are courageous and show love through everything we design, make and create.
The National Curriculum for Design Technology aims to ensure that all pupils:
- Develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world.
- Build and apply a repertoire of knowledge, understanding and skills in order to design and make high-quality prototypes and products for a wide range of users.
- Critique, evaluate and test their ideas and products and the work of other.
- Understand and apply the principles of nutrition and learn how to cook.
