Design and Technology (DT)
Vision
At Cayley, our vision for Design and Technology is to inspire creativity, curiosity, and practical problem-solving. Through hands-on learning, we empower pupils to design, make, and evaluate with confidence, preparing them for an ever-changing world.
Intent
Our DT curriculum is designed to develop pupils’ creativity, resilience, and problem-solving skills through practical projects. Pupils explore a wide range of areas, including textiles, food & nutrition, mechanisms, systems, and structures, and learn to plan, create and reflect on their work.
We aim to foster independence, innovation, and confidence in pupils’ abilities to solve real-world challenges. Pupils are encouraged to evaluate their own and others’ work, linking creativity with practical skill and knowledge.
Implementation
Pupils complete four DT units each year, one per term plus a shorter focus unit, with each unit equating to approximately six hours of learning. Units may be delivered as weekly lessons or in blocks depending on timetables. Pupils record their ideas, planning, and reflections in sketchbooks, alongside producing final outcomes.
We follow the CUSP DT curriculum, which provides structured lesson sequences, resources, and guidance for teachers. Lessons include:
- revisiting prior learning
- introducing new vocabulary and concepts
- explicit teaching of skills and techniques
- time for independent application and creation
DT lessons are designed to be inclusive and adaptable. Visual aids, scaffolds, alternative apparatus, or adjustments to the workspace are used to support SEND pupils or those with additional physical needs.
Impact
Through DT, pupils develop confidence in practical skills, creativity, and problem-solving. They learn to plan, make, and evaluate thoughtfully, while exploring a range of materials and techniques.
Progress is assessed through:
- formative observation, questioning, and peer/self-assessment
- summative evaluation at the end of each unit
- evidence from sketchbooks, final outcomes, photographs, and pupil voice
Monitoring includes sketchbook reviews, learning walks, and pupil discussions to ensure teaching quality, curriculum coverage, and consistent skill development.
As a result, pupils leave Cayley with practical skills, creative thinking abilities, and the confidence to design and make solutions to real-world challenges.