Our approach to Design and Technology

Intent behind curriculum delivery 

At Hollymount we have a high-quality Design and Technology curriculum which helps our pupils to design and make products to solve real and relevant problems within a wide variety of contexts. The curriculum follows the three main stages of the design process to form a full project, as outlined in The National Curriculum: design (researching and generating own ideas for a product, creating models and diagrams),make (selecting and using appropriate tools and equipment; creating a model from their designs; developing their skills of accuracy and precision) and evaluate (exploring and analysing existing products and their own/other’s ideas). Each stage of the design process is underpinned by technical knowledge which encompasses the contextual, historical and technical understanding, required for each strand. 

Cooking and nutrition units have an additional focus on specific principles, skills and techniques in food, including where food comes from, diet and seasonality whilst still following the design, make, evaluate process as outlined above.  

Curriculum Overview

Progression/Links from Early Years Curriculum into KS1

Early Years have a “Topic led” curriculum which is an approach that works well for the “Development Matters EYFS, Non-Statutory Curriculum Guidance for the Early Years Foundation Stage.” This includes the 7 Key Features of Effective Practice, The Characteristics of Effective Teaching and Learning and the 7 learning areas for the EYFS.  Below is an example of the topics taught in Reception and also links to how Reception’s teaching and learning, through lessons and continuous provision, ensures that knowledge and skills taught, progress well into Year 1.  

Curriculum Map - Units of work and intended learning 

dt curriculum map knowledge skills and topics.pdf