Design & Technology Curriculum Overview
Curriculum Intent
Design & Technology at our school equips students with the knowledge, skills, creativity and technical confidence to design and make products that solve real-world problems. Through a broad and practical curriculum, students learn how to take risks, think independently, and combine imaginative ideas with precision, functionality and purpose.
From Key Stage 3 onwards, students develop an understanding of materials, processes and design principles through hands-on projects in graphics, resistant materials and electronics. They are taught to research, plan, design, make and evaluate using a range of tools and digital technologies. Every project encourages innovation, curiosity and resilience.
Our curriculum builds progressively to prepare students for specialisms at GCSE, including Design Technology and Electronics. Students become confident in using workshop machinery, CAD/CAM, electronic systems and sustainable design principles. They explore how design shapes society and respond creatively to real-world needs.
Design & Technology is a subject that embodies our four curriculum pillars:
- Knowledge – Students develop technical expertise in materials, processes, manufacturing and design theory. They apply scientific and mathematical principles to real contexts and use CAD/CAM confidently.
- Independence – Students manage design projects from concept to completion, making informed decisions and evaluating outcomes. The iterative process encourages ownership and self-reflection.
- Empowerment – Students see themselves as problem-solvers, innovators and designers who can influence the world around them. They gain the skills and confidence to pursue careers in design, engineering, architecture or construction.
- Inclusion – All students access a curriculum that celebrates diversity and multiple design traditions. Projects are adapted to ensure everyone can succeed, using a range of accessible materials, pathways and tools.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9):
Across KS3, students learn core design and practical skills through creative, real-world projects in graphics, resistant materials and electronics. Each year builds on prior knowledge and increases challenge, independence and complexity.
Year 7
- Tangram Puzzle Project – Introduction to D&T, workshop safety, measuring, cutting, joining and finishing.
- Novelty Chocolate Project – Vacuum forming, packaging design, advertising and plastics.
- Steady Hand Tester – Electronics project introducing circuits, resistors, LEDs and soldering.
Year 8
- Wooden Box Project – Jointing techniques, wood properties and finishing.
- Moisture Sensor Project – Systems: Input, Process and Output and Circuit design, Soldering.
- Pop-Up Card Project – Graphic design, mechanisms, paper engineering and creative presentation.
Year 9
- Home Accessory Project – Product design using materials, flowcharts and design briefs.
GCSE Options projects and work for Design Technology & Electronics– Graphics skills, CAD CAM skills, preparation for GCSE, Key ring project.
Through these projects, students develop confidence with a range of materials and equipment and gain insight into sustainable design, product development and user needs.
Key Stage 4 (GCSE Design & Technology – AQA)
At GCSE, students deepen their technical understanding and specialism in either Resistant Materials or Graphics, applying their KS3 foundations to professional-level design challenges.
Year 10
- Box & Pewter Casting Project – Working with timber and metals, CAD/CAM mould design, casting and finishing.
- Puzzle in a Box Project – Graphic design, packaging, CAD/CAM laser cutting and design movements.
- Preparation for NEA (Non-Examined Assessment) – Skills consolidation in materials, tools, processes and design theory.
Year 11
Non-Examined Assessment (50%) – A major design project based on an AQA context challenge, such as:
- Addressing the needs of people with disabilities
- Supporting developing countries
- Encouraging a healthy lifestyle
Students research, design, model, prototype, test and evaluate their product through a full design portfolio.
- Final Examination (50%) – Knowledge and understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, design theory and sustainability.
Throughout KS4, students apply iterative design thinking, advanced drawing and modelling techniques, and modern manufacturing tools. They learn to justify decisions with evidence, present professionally, and evaluate designs against real user needs.
Supporting Documents
DT Curriculum MapElectronics Curriculum Map A-level 2025
Electronics Curriculum Map June 2024
