At Graven Hill Primary and Preschool, Design and Technology is an inspiring, practical and purposeful subject that encourages children to think creatively, solve problems and apply their learning in real‑world contexts. Through design and making, pupils learn how ideas are transformed into products and how thoughtful design can improve everyday life.

Our Design and Technology curriculum develops children’s creativity, imagination and resilience, while equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to design and make products that meet real and relevant needs. Children are encouraged to consider their own needs, as well as the needs, values and experiences of others.

Our Design and Technology Curriculum

Design and Technology at Graven Hill follows a clear and carefully sequenced process. Children are taught to:

• Investigate and understand design contexts
• Generate, develop and communicate ideas
• Design purposeful, functional and appealing products
• Select and use tools, equipment and materials safely
• Make products with increasing accuracy and skill
• Evaluate their work and the work of others

This structured approach ensures that knowledge and skills build progressively over time, allowing children to revisit and deepen their understanding as they move through the school.

Cross‑Curricular Learning

Design and Technology draws on a wide range of disciplines, including:

• Mathematics – measuring, calculating and problem‑solving
• Science – understanding materials, forces, structures and mechanisms
• Engineering – designing solutions and improving functionality
• Computing – control, programming and digital design
• Art – creativity, aesthetics and visual communication

By making these connections explicit, children learn how knowledge from different subjects works together in meaningful and practical ways.

Developing Key Life Skills

Through Design and Technology, pupils learn how to:

• Take risks and learn from mistakes
• Work creatively and think innovatively
• Become resourceful, enterprising and resilient
• Collaborate, test ideas and refine solutions
• Evaluate designs critically and constructively

Children are encouraged to see challenges as opportunities and to develop confidence in their ability to improve and adapt their work.

Understanding Design in the World Around Us

As part of the curriculum, children explore past and present design and technology, helping them to develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world. They learn how design influences culture, wellbeing, sustainability and the way we live and work.

Preparing Children for the Future

High‑quality Design and Technology education plays an important role in preparing children for future learning and life beyond the classroom. At Graven Hill, our curriculum ensures that pupils leave with:

• Strong practical and problem‑solving skills
• Confidence to design, make and evaluate
• An understanding of how products are developed
• Creativity, curiosity and a willingness to innovate
• The ability to apply knowledge in real‑world situations

Through Design and Technology, children become thoughtful designers and capable makers—ready to contribute positively to their communities and the wider world.