Design & Technology at Chapel Hill
Vision
At Chapel Hill, we believe Design and Technology should inspire creativity, innovation and problem-solving. We aim to develop confident designers who can think critically, take risks, and apply their learning to real-life contexts. Through engaging and practical experiences, pupils are prepared to contribute positively to the ever-evolving world around them.
Intent
Our Design and Technology curriculum aims to develop creative thinkers and effective problem solvers. We equip pupils with the analytical skills and technical knowledge needed to identify needs, explore opportunities and design purposeful solutions.
Through D&T, pupils:
- Develop a broad range of practical skills
- Learn to design, make and evaluate products
- Gain an understanding of how products are developed and used in the wider world
- Explore the impact of design on individuals, society and the environment
Ultimately, we aim to empower children to make informed decisions and understand how design can improve quality of life, both now and in the future.
Implementation
To ensure high-quality teaching and learning in Design and Technology, we provide a well-structured and progressive curriculum across all year groups.
Teachers are supported to deliver engaging lessons through:
- Strong subject knowledge and ongoing professional development
- Opportunities to design and create their own exemplar products
- Access to appropriate, high-quality resources
Curriculum Structure
- Key Stage 1 & Key Stage 2: A minimum of 5 hours per term, covering the full design process:
Research → Plan → Make → Evaluate - Foundation Stage: D&T concepts are embedded within Understanding the World and Expressive Arts, with practical exploration integrated throughout the curriculum
Recording and Process
Children record their learning through:
- Research (including images and analysis of existing products)
- Planning and design sketches
- Evaluations of their final products
- Photographic evidence of completed work
All projects include research to deepen understanding of existing products and inform the design process. Emphasis is placed on developing evaluative thinking and refining ideas.
Impact
Our Design and Technology curriculum ensures that pupils are engaged, motivated and proud of their work. Outcomes demonstrate a clear progression of skills, knowledge and creativity.
By the end of Key Stage 2, pupils will:
- Produce high-quality, well-constructed products
- Apply a wide range of practical skills confidently
- Demonstrate understanding of aesthetic, social and environmental considerations
- Show increasing sophistication in planning, designing and evaluating
Pupils leave Chapel Hill as enthusiastic learners who are equipped with the skills and confidence to continue their design journey in Key Stage 3 and beyond.
Ongoing reflection and collaboration between staff ensure that the curriculum remains dynamic, relevant, and engaging, maintaining high levels of enthusiasm and achievement across the school.