At Estcourt Primary Academy, our design and technology curriculum encourages pupils to solve real-life problems. They do this through developing their knowledge and practical skills. Through our key drivers, we develop our pupils to be confident risk-takers. Pupils become well-prepared and resourceful.

Our key drivers are:
• Enquiry, skill development, creative and practical learning
• Problem solving through design to make the world a better place
• Building and expanding technological language and knowledge

Design and technology is embedded in our Reading Enhanced Curriculum which has reading for purpose at its core. Each unit of work has a high-quality, age appropriate driving text assigned that is used as the catalyst to impart curriculum knowledge and promote questioning. These texts are carefully selected to engage, inspire and deepen understanding. Alongside this, supplementary texts and bespoke knowledge organisers enable pupils to enrich their knowledge, vocabulary and curriculum skills. Every curriculum session begins with reading for purpose, from either the driving book or a supplementary text. Pupils then use this as a stimulus to discuss new knowledge, deepen their enquiry skills and form links in their learning.

Pupils learn about past and present technology. They develop an understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world. Design and technology provides opportunities to solve meaningful problems. Pupils build the technical skills and knowledge needed to undertake everyday tasks. They become confident in using computer-aided technology. These skills prepare them for our ever-changing advancing world.

Pupils will learn how to create imaginative products with a purpose. They test their design ideas and products. They evaluate them too. They critique their finished product and offer feedback to others. Pupils learn about different engineers, designers, chefs and architects. They learn how their products have changed the world in which we live.