William Shrewsbury Primary School

Subject Leader 

                                                           Miss L Hayes                 

Design and Technology at William Shrewsbury Primary School

At William Shrewsbury, Design and Technology is a regarded as a fundamental stepping stone into successful careers in later life. Our purpose is to grow creative problem solvers with transferable skills for adulthood. 

Design and technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Using creativity and imagination, pupils design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. They acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, they develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world. High-quality design and technology education makes an essential contribution to the creativity, culture, wealth and well-being of the nation.

Design and Technology Purpose of Study, The National Curriculum 2014

Our Design and Technology Curriculum develops essential characteristics of designers:

• Significant levels of originality and the willingness to take creative risks to produce innovative ideas and prototypes.
• An excellent attitude to learning and independent working.
• The ability to use time efficiently and work constructively and productively with others.
• The ability to carry out thorough research, show initiative and ask questions to develop an exceptionally detailed knowledge of users’ needs.
• The ability to act as responsible designers and makers, working ethically, using finite materials carefully and working safely.
• A thorough knowledge of which tools, equipment and materials to use to make their products.
• The ability to apply mathematical knowledge.
• The ability to manage risks exceptionally well to manufacture product safely and hygienically.
• A passion for the subject and knowledge of up-to-date technological innovations in materials, products and systems.

How Design and Technology is taught at William Shrewsbury Primary School

Design and Technology is about providing opportunities for students to develop their capability, combining their designing and making skills with knowledge and understanding in order to create quality products.

Design and Technology Association 

At William Shrewsbury Primary School, Design and Technology learning is structured around a consistent sequence that supports progression and depth of understanding. Across all year groups, pupils engage with a consistent sequence within the design process. All pupils participate in the following stages:

• Technical Knowledge (Skills Practice)
• Research and Investigation
• Design
• Make
• Evaluate

This structure ensures that pupils first develop and practise essential technical skills before researching, designing, making and evaluating purposeful products. The sequence supports progression, builds confidence and allows pupils to apply both substantive and disciplinary knowledge effectively over time.

Learning Journey in Design and Technology

All Design and Technology units at William Shrewsbury Primary School begin with a low-threat skills practice session. This allows pupils to learn, practise and revisit key skills, techniques and tools in a supportive environment before they are expected to apply them independently within a design task. This approach builds confidence, reduces cognitive load and ensures pupils are well-prepared to succeed in later stages of the unit.

DT lessons at William Shrewsbury Primary School follow a clear and consistent learning journey:

1. Skills Practice – pupils are introduced to key tools, materials and techniques needed for the unit
2. Research and Investigation – pupils explore existing products, designers and user needs
3. Design – pupils generate, develop and communicate their ideas
4. Make – pupils apply their skills to create and refine their product
5. Evaluate – pupils reflect on the effectiveness of their product and the design process

This approach builds confidence, technical competence and independence while encouraging thoughtful evaluation and improvement.

 Trips, Visitors and Workshops

Here at William Shrewsbury Primary School, we are passionate about providing additional opportunities for Design and Technology that enhance our curriculum offer. We strongly believe that trips, visitors and workshops are highly valuable for developing a deep understanding. 

We are looking for local businesses that would be willing to collaborate with our team to provide additional opportunities for our children. If you think you could help, please contact Miss Hayes to express your interest.  

Rights Respecting Schools in Design Technology