Design Technology

Subject Leader: Mrs Sadler

Contact Email: pennowethlowerks2@croftymat.org

Our Design and Technology Curriculum Intent:

‘Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.’

—   Steve Jobs —

At Pennoweth, we believe that Design Technology inspires children to learn to think creatively to solve problems. We encourage children to use their imagination to design and make products in response to real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, taking into account their own and others’ needs and wants.

DNA

The culture of our DNA at Pennoweth also aids and supports the teaching and learning of Design Technology throughout the school.

Children are taught to work methodically in Design Technology, using imagination to design and build projects that solve real-world problems. They explore materials and techniques, embracing experimentation in a safe and trusted space where ideas evolve naturally. Through discussion, collaboration, and evaluation, they feel supported and loved. Creating with intention fosters responsibility—a valuable skill transferable across their learning at Pennoweth. Design Technology challenges their thinking from research to final build, nurturing expressive freedom. Most importantly, it prepares them to be ready—equipped with resilience, creativity, and confidence to face any challenge learning may present.

What will my child experience through Design Technology at Pennoweth?
Nursery and Reception:

In the Early Years, DT encourages children to develop as individuals and learners. If fosters a sense of independence and develops their confidence with making choices. It promotes transferable skills that the children can take into their independent learning.

Years 1-6:
Throughout the children’s time at Pennoweth, Design Technology is taught as part of a project-based approach. This approach aims to cover every aspect of the Design Technology National Curriculum. Children will encounter Design Technology through several immersive projects during each Key Stage.
DT curriculum objective progression
DT curriculum knowledge progression

DT vocabulary progression

What do Pennoweth’s children think about Design and Technology?

“I found out that triangles are a strong and sturdy shape. The frame is  a triangular based prism which gives it a strong base.”

Upper Key Stage Two

“I liked making spinners in DT. It was hard at first but then they spun well. I had to think about the shape of the spinner. It was fun!”

Lower Key Stage Two

“I have loved learning about space buggies. I never knew that people used them on the moon. I liked learning about the chassis and axles and how wheels move.”

Key Stage One

Useful Design Technology websites and links:
EYFS and KS1:
https://www.stem.org.uk/resources/collection/2892/designing-key-stage-one

KS2: