The Design and Technology Curriculum

 

At Gomersal Primary School, our Design and Technology curriculum is carefully structured using the Kapow Primary scheme of work. It is designed to inspire creativity, problem-solving and innovation, while equipping pupils with practical life skills.

Through a broad and engaging curriculum, pupils learn to design, make and evaluate purposeful products for a range of users. They develop technical knowledge in areas such as structures, mechanisms, textiles and food technology, while also gaining an understanding of nutrition and healthy eating.

Our curriculum encourages pupils to become confident designers who can take risks, learn from mistakes and reflect on their work.

 

Statement of Intent

At Gomersal Primary School, we aim to:

  • Develop creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently
  • Build resilience and problem-solving skills through iterative design
  • Inspire pupils to take risks, innovate and think critically
  • Provide opportunities to design and make products for real-life purposes
  • Teach pupils about the impact of design and technology on the wider world
  • Encourage an understanding of nutrition and healthy lifestyles

By following the Kapow scheme, we ensure progression of skills and knowledge across all year groups, allowing pupils to build on prior learning and deepen their understanding over time.

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How do we teach Design and Technology at Gomersal?

Design and Technology is taught through a cyclical process of:

Design → Make → Evaluate

Each unit follows a clear sequence:

  • Design – Pupils research, generate ideas and develop design criteria
  • Make – Pupils select tools and materials, learning practical skills safely
  • Evaluate – Pupils test and refine their products, reflecting on strengths and improvements

Kapow units are structured to:

  • Build knowledge and skills progressively
  • Include hands-on, practical learning experiences
  • Encourage independence and teamwork
  • Link with other curriculum areas where appropriate

Teachers use questioning, modelling and discussion to deepen understanding and ensure all pupils are supported and challenged.

Curriculum progression 

Our Design and Technology curriculum is carefully mapped to ensure clear progression in:

  • Technical knowledge
  • Designing skills
  • Making skills
  • Evaluating skills

Progression documents show how learning builds from Early Years through to Year 6, ensuring that pupils revisit and develop key concepts over time.

 

 

D&T Progression of Knowledge and Skills

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How can parents help at home?

Parents can support Design and Technology learning in many simple and enjoyable ways:

  • Encourage children to build and create using everyday materials (e.g. boxes, paper, fabric)
  • Involve children in cooking and baking, discussing healthy ingredients and nutrition
  • Talk about how everyday objects are designed and made
  • Provide opportunities for problem-solving, such as fixing or improving items
  • Explore creative activities like sewing, model-making or construction kits

Supporting creativity at home helps children develop confidence, curiosity and practical skills that are essential for Design and Technology.