Good buildings come from good people, and all problems are solved by good design.

- Stephen Gardiner

Design & Technology Curriculum Intent Statement

At Looe Community Academy, our Design & Technology curriculum is designed to nurture curiosity, deepen understanding, and empower every learner to think creatively and critically about the world of design. We believe that knowledge is connected, not fragmented, so our curriculum builds meaningful links between investigation, design, development, making, and evaluation, enabling students to see patterns and purpose in what they create. 

Central to our curriculum are the big ideas of Investigate, Design, Develop, Make, and Evaluate. These concepts underpin every project, helping students explore how products are conceived, refined, and manufactured to meet human needs. Through these lenses, learners develop technical precision, problem-solving skills, and the ability to innovate responsibly. 

We aim to encourage learners to take creative risks, experiment with materials, and develop independence. Through rich encounters with traditional craftsmanship and modern technologies—from hand tools and finger joints to CAD/CAM and smart materials—students learn to question, interpret, and innovate. They study sustainability, ergonomics, and the work of influential designers, connecting their learning to real-world applications and future careers. 

Our curriculum prioritises technical skill, creative independence, and academic depth. Students learn the craft of making while developing curiosity through material science, design strategies, and iterative thinking. They are encouraged to ask questions, make connections, and express themselves through purposeful design, preparing them for life beyond the classroom. 

Ultimately, our intent is to ignite a lifelong passion for design, equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and creativity to thrive as thoughtful makers, problem-solvers, and innovators in an ever-changing world. 

Progression from Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 4 

Our curriculum is spiralled and challenging, revisiting key concepts at increasing levels of complexity: 

• Key Stage 3: Students begin with the foundations—safe working practices, risk assessment, and basic hand tool skills. They learn to investigate briefs, analyse products, and create simple prototypes using wood, acrylic, and basic electronics. CAD/CAM is introduced alongside traditional techniques, building confidence in digital and physical making. 

• Key Stage 4: Challenge deepens as students master advanced design strategies and manufacturing processes. They explore new and emerging technologies, sustainability, and ethical design. Learners develop iterative design thinking, produce detailed working drawings, and apply tolerances and quality control. Projects integrate CAD/CAM, electronics, and material science, preparing students for GCSE assessment and future careers in engineering, product design, and creative industries.