Design & Technology

Design & Technology at Ickworth Park Primary School

At Ickworth Park Primary School, our Design & Technology curriculum is ambitious, practical and accessible for all pupils. It builds progressively on knowledge, creativity and technical skills from the Early Years to Year 6.

Our Intent

At Ickworth Park Primary School, our Design & Technology curriculum aims to develop confident, imaginative and resilient learners who can design, make and evaluate purposeful products.

We aim for all pupils to:

Develop creativity and curiosity through designing and making
Build confidence in using tools, materials and techniques
Understand how products are developed to meet real needs
Apply technical knowledge such as mechanisms, structures, textiles and food technology

We believe D&T is a vital part of a child’s education, helping them develop problem‑solving skills, independence and practical confidence.

Our Approach

Early Years

In the Early Years, D&T is delivered through child‑led exploration, supported by high‑quality provision and adult modelling. Children learn through:

Exploring materials and joining techniques
Building and constructing with a purpose
Developing early problem‑solving skills
Using tools safely with increasing independence

Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2

From Year 1 to Year 6, we follow the Charanga D&T scheme, which provides a clear, structured and progressive approach.

Pupils develop:

Design skills: planning, drawing, modelling and adapting ideas
Making skills: selecting tools, materials and techniques
Technical knowledge: mechanisms, structures, textiles, electrical systems and food technology
Evaluation skills: reflecting on their own work and existing products

Projects become increasingly sophisticated as pupils move through the school, allowing them to develop a broad range of practical and creative experiences.

Progression

D&T learning begins in the Early Years, where children explore materials, construction and simple joining techniques. This foundation supports more structured learning in KS1 and KS2.

In EYFS and KS1, pupils develop early making skills, simple mechanisms and basic food preparation
In KS2, pupils build on this by designing and making more complex products, using tools with accuracy and applying technical knowledge

As pupils progress:

They develop confidence in using tools safely
They learn to evaluate and refine their ideas
By Year 6, many pupils can design, make and evaluate products with increasing independence

Learning is carefully sequenced to build creativity, technical skill and resilience over time.

Inclusion

All pupils are supported to access the D&T curriculum.

Whole‑class teaching ensures every child participates
Tasks are adapted to meet individual needs
Pupils are supported to use tools safely and confidently
Success is celebrated at all levels

We are committed to ensuring D&T is accessible to all pupils, regardless of background or experience.

What Makes Design & Technology Special at Ickworth Park

Design & Technology is a vibrant and practical part of school life at Ickworth Park.

Pupils take part in design challenges
Finished products are showcased in class exhibitions and celebration events
Food technology units link to healthy eating and real‑life cooking experiences
Cross‑curricular links with Science, Art and Computing enrich learning

These experiences help pupils develop teamwork, creativity and pride in their achievements.

We are proud that many pupils go on to:

Explore design, engineering and cooking at home
Take part in STEM clubs and creative projects
Continue developing practical skills beyond primary school

Impact

Pupils develop:

Confidence in designing, making and evaluating
Practical skills using tools, materials and techniques
An understanding of how products are created to meet real needs
Creativity, resilience and pride in their work

They leave Ickworth Park as confident young designers with a strong foundation in practical skills and a lasting appreciation of creativity and innovation.