Intent Statement

At Meadowhead Junior School, our Design and Technology curriculum develops children’s skills and knowledge in design, structures, mechanisms, electrical control and a range of materials, including food. It encourages children’s creativity and encourages them to think about important issues. 

Learning new skills, problem-solving, being creative and enjoyment are at the heart of a child’s development. As outlined in the National Curriculum, Design and Technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Using creativity and imagination, pupils design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values.

The National Curriculum for Design and 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 others.

• Understand and apply the principles of nutrition and learn how to prepare simple healthy meals.

• Build on their vocabulary and apply it accurately

Implementation 

Our Key Stage Two Design and Technology curriculum is carefully tailored to the needs, interests and experiences of our children, providing them with practical, hands-on opportunities to develop creativity, problem-solving skills and technical understanding. Through a balanced focus on food technology, mechanical systems, structural design and textiles, pupils learn to design, make and evaluate purposeful products that reflect real-life contexts. Units are sequenced to build progressively on prior knowledge, ensuring that children develop increasing independence and confidence as they explore cooking and nutrition, create moving mechanisms, construct stable structures and work with a variety of fabrics and stitches. This bespoke approach ensures that all pupils can apply their learning in meaningful ways, developing the skills and resilience needed to take risks, innovate and produce high-quality outcomes.

Impact Statement 

At Meadowhead Junior School, our Design and Technology curriculum is designed to equip every child with the practical knowledge and transferable skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. By engaging in food technology, mechanical systems every year, and developing the life skills of textiles, sewing and structural development, pupils develop a deep understanding of how things are designed, made, and function in the real world. Learning about food teaches children how to make informed nutritional choices, prepares them for independent living and promotes lifelong habits that support health and wellbeing. Mechanical systems education fosters problem-solving, resilience and creative thinking as learners explore how movement, energy and control shape the products and technologies around them. The inclusion of textiles and structural development further builds fine motor skills, spatial awareness and an appreciation of sustainability through designing, repairing and re-using resources. Collectively, these subjects nurture confident, adaptable individuals who can apply technical knowledge and practical skills with purpose, creativity and responsibility. Through this curriculum, children leave our school empowered to contribute meaningfully to modern society as informed consumers, innovative designers and independent, capable young citizens.

By the time pupils leave Year 6, they have developed strong problem-solving abilities, confidence in using tools and materials, and a deep understanding of how design impacts the world around them. They are equipped with the knowledge of sustainability, the importance of healthy living and how technology can be used to improve everyday life.

The curriculum encourages pupils to think critically, work collaboratively, and take responsibility for their creations, ensuring they leave school with the skills to approach future challenges with confidence and creativity. Pupils not only gain practical skills but also learn how to apply their knowledge across subjects, making connections between design, science, and the real world.

Ultimately, our DT curriculum prepares pupils for life beyond school, equipping them with the creativity, resilience, and practical skills necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.