Design and Technology Vision 2026 – 2027
Our Approach to Teaching Design and Technology
At St Catharine’s School, Design and Technology is taught with the clear intention of developing children as designers within a supportive “community of designers.” Learning is structured as a purposeful design journey—researching, designing, refining skills, making and evaluating—through creative and practical activities linked to wider curriculum topics. Explicit teaching of key techniques enables pupils to build a strong repertoire of knowledge, skills and understanding, which they apply to designing and making high-quality products for real users.
A two-year rolling programme ensures progression and coverage for all pupils, supported by clear knowledge organisers and effective assessment. Learning is inclusive and differentiated, enabling all children to participate successfully and achieve well. Design and Technology is valued across the school through high-quality learning environments, newsletters and celebration of children’s work, helping pupils to see DT as both a subject and a future vocation.
Our Core Aim for all Pupils
Our core aim is to nurture creative, confident and capable designers who can contribute positively to an increasingly technological world. We encourage pupils to develop imagination, problem-solving skills and technical expertise, while also learning to evaluate, test and refine their ideas using accurate Design and Technology vocabulary. When appropriate, they are encouraged to draw on other STEM subjects within the design journey.
Rooted in our school values, we aim to inspire children to be responsible stewards of creation, using resources sustainably and understanding the principles of nutrition and cooking. Through learning about influential designers and inventors, pupils gain a sense of purpose, vocation and responsibility, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the wider world.
