Design and Technology

Intent

At Our Lady of Fatima, our Design and Technology curriculum inspires pupils to be innovative, resourceful, and reflective problem-solvers. Rooted in our Gospel values and the principle that every child is uniquely gifted by God, we aim to equip pupils with the practical skills and creative thinking they need to design purposeful solutions for real-world challenges.

Through our DT curriculum, we seek to:

• Encourage curiosity, imagination and resilience in designing and making;

• Provide meaningful contexts for children to develop and apply technical knowledge and practical skills;

• Foster an understanding of how design impacts daily life, industry, and the wider world;

• Develop collaboration, perseverance and evaluative thinking in a faith-filled and supportive environment.

Our intent is that every child leaves Our Lady of Fatima as a confident designer, ready to use their gifts to serve others and improve the world around them.

Implementation

Our Design and Technology curriculum is carefully structured to ensure progression, purpose and creativity across all year groups. Children are taught to research, plan, make and evaluate through a cycle of learning that mirrors real-life design processes.

Key features of our implementation include:

• A well-sequenced curriculum that builds skills in structures, mechanisms, textiles, food technology and electronics;

• Cross-curricular links to subjects such as science, maths and RE, making learning meaningful and relevant;

• A focus on user-centred design, encouraging children to consider the needs of others in their creations;

• Emphasis on key DT concepts including function, innovation, sustainability and safety;

• Opportunities for hands-on, practical learning that promotes resilience, independence and collaboration;

• Use of design journals or folders to record the design process, including planning, refining and evaluating ideas;

• Ongoing support and CPD for staff to ensure high-quality, engaging and inclusive teaching of DT.

Impact

The impact of our DT curriculum is seen in pupils who are enthusiastic, capable and thoughtful designers. They leave us with a strong foundation in practical skills, creative thinking and a mindset of innovation and service.

We measure impact through:

• Evidence of skill progression and thoughtful design work in children’s books or project portfolios;

• High levels of engagement and enjoyment in designing, making and evaluating;

• Pupil voice that reflects confidence, pride and understanding of the design process;

• Final products that are functional, creative, and reflect careful planning and improvement;

• Development of life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, perseverance and self-reflection;

• Children who recognise how DT links to careers, real-life challenges and ways they can contribute positively to society.

By the time pupils leave Our Lady of Fatima, they are not only skilled and creative designers, but also compassionate problem-solvers who seek to use their talents to make a difference in the world - living out our mission to live, love and learn in the light and example of Jesus Christ.