"Technology makes possibilities. Design makes solutions."
 John Maeda

 

INTENT

At Barnburgh Primary Academy, the impact of our Design and Technology curriculum is evident in the confidence, creativity, and resilience shown by our pupils. Children leave each stage of their learning with the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to design purposeful products, solve real-world problems, and evaluate their work thoughtfully. They understand that Design and Technology is a process that values exploration, innovation, and improvement.

 

Through carefully planned learning experiences, pupils develop technical skills alongside an understanding of aesthetic, social, and environmental considerations. They learn to identify needs and opportunities, generate and refine ideas, and create products and systems that reflect both function and creativity. Mistakes are recognised as a natural and valuable part of the design process, enabling children to grow as independent and reflective learners.

 

Our Design and Technology curriculum is firmly rooted in our Core Values and these are clearly demonstrated in pupils’ attitudes and outcomes:

 

Courage: Pupils confidently take risks, try new ideas, and experiment with materials and techniques. They understand that mistakes are part of the learning journey and use them as opportunities to improve the quality of their work.

 

Perseverance: Children show determination when faced with challenges, continually refining and re-evaluating their designs. They understand that high-quality outcomes often require time, effort, and repeated improvement, and they develop the resilience needed to see projects through from concept to completion.

 

Ambition: Pupils take pride in their work and are motivated to achieve high standards. They are encouraged to push beyond what they believe is their best, resulting in designs that demonstrate creativity, precision, and purpose.

 

Respect: Children respect the ideas, creativity, and achievements of their peers, offering constructive feedback and working collaboratively. They also demonstrate respect for tools, equipment, and materials, understanding the importance of safety and responsibility in Design and Technology.

 

Independence: Pupils become confident, self-reliant designers who can think critically and solve problems independently. They understand that successful designing requires careful attention to detail, thoughtful decision-making, and the ability to overcome challenges with confidence.

 

Overall, the impact of Design and Technology at Barnburgh is seen in pupils who are enthusiastic, reflective, and capable designers. They leave primary school equipped with transferable skills—such as problem-solving, collaboration, and resilience—that prepare them well for future learning and for life in an ever-changing world.

 

Please find the design and technology progression document below. This is a working document.