Design & Technology

How do we teach DT in the Bursledon Federation?

At Bursledon Federation, Design & Technology is an inspiring, practical and imaginative subject where children learn to solve real problems through creative thinking, purposeful design and hands‑on making. Our DT curriculum encourages pupils to think like designers—researching users’ needs, generating ideas, selecting tools and materials carefully, and creating high‑quality products that are functional and appealing. Through practical exploration, structured discussion and oracy strategies, children learn to articulate their ideas clearly, collaborate effectively and evaluate their work with increasing independence. They develop technical knowledge, resilience and confidence as they refine their designs and understand how products are shaped by both creativity and practical considerations. Our aim is for every child to leave Bursledon as an inventive, thoughtful and capable designer who enjoys bringing ideas to life and sees themselves as a problem‑solver in an ever‑changing world.

The Bursledon Design & Technology Curriculum

National Curriculum link for Design & Technology Programme of study: click here

EYFS curriculum link: Click Here

Design and Technology Curriculum overview:

Infant school:

At Bursledon, we inspire our youngest learners to become creative problem-solvers through engaging, practical Design and Technology experiences. Children explore, design, make, and evaluate products using a range of materials and tools, developing key skills such as resilience, teamwork, and critical thinking. Our DT curriculum is carefully planned to nurture curiosity, encourage safe experimentation, and help every child understand how design and technology shape the world around them.

Junior School:

At Bursledon Junior School, Design and Technology is taught as a dynamic and purposeful subject that encourages innovation, critical thinking, and practical problem-solving. Through a progressive curriculum from Year 3 to Year 6, pupils deepen their understanding of the design process—researching, planning, making, and evaluating—while applying technical knowledge and skills across a range of materials and contexts. Projects are often linked to real-world challenges, STEM learning, and sustainability, helping children see the relevance of DT in everyday life. By the end of Key Stage 2, pupils are confident, creative designers who can work independently and collaboratively to bring their ideas to life.

What does a Bursledon Design & Technology expert look like?

Creative thinker – generates imaginative ideas and explores different ways to solve real-life problems.
Confident communicator – uses oracy to explain design choices, share feedback and collaborate with others.
Skilled maker – uses tools, materials and equipment safely and accurately to create high‑quality products.
Purposeful designer – designs with a clear user and function in mind, considering how products improve lives.
Reflective evaluator – tests, reviews and improves their work based on evidence, feedback and functionality.
Technical vocabulary user – applies accurate terminology related to materials, mechanisms, structures and processes.
Resilient innovator – embraces challenges, perseveres when ideas don’t go to plan, and adapts designs thoughtfully.