D&T Intent Statement

Our history curriculum aims to ignite a lifelong curiosity about the past and its influence on the present, fostering a deep understanding of diverse cultures, societies, and events that have shaped our world. We believe in making history accessible and inclusive through engaging, thought-provoking content and carefully planned activities.

By exploring significant events, figures, and movements, our pupils gain insights into the complexities of human experience, preparing them to become informed and reflective individuals who understand the importance of history in shaping the future. Our curriculum is designed to encourage pupils to think like historians, developing the ability to critically evaluate sources, understand chronology, and make connections between past and present.

Pupils develop key historical knowledge and skills, such as analysing primary and secondary sources, understanding cause and consequence, and recognising continuity and change. We emphasise enquiry-based learning, where children investigate historical questions, engage in discussions, and participate in activities that bring history to life. Enrichment opportunities, such as museum visits, workshops and year group assemblies also deepen understanding and provide valuable real-world contexts for learning.

We strive to ensure that the knowledge and skills pupils acquire are not only valuable in understanding the past but also transferable to various fields and future career paths, helping them to become critical thinkers and informed citizens.

Our design and technology curriculum is designed to provide pupils with an appreciation and working knowledge of the essential components of D&T. We ensure that pupils understand the entire design process, including researching, planning, making, and evaluating. They will learn to take risks, become resourceful, and appreciate the impact of design and technology on society and the environment. D&T at Westminster connects classroom learning to real-world applications through hands-on experiences, preparing students for future STEM learning and careers in design, engineering, and technology.

Our curriculum caters to diverse learning needs and backgrounds, ensuring success for all students. Learning is scaffolded to support all learners, fostering an inclusive environment where every student feels valued. We use project-based learning, technology, and hands-on activities to make D&T engaging.

Pupils learn key knowledge areas such as the design process, properties of materials, and the principles of mechanisms and structures. They develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, through individual and collaborative work. Our curriculum builds pupils’ knowledge and understanding year on year, ensuring progression, continuity and depth, so that pupils are able to experience success with increasingly more complex tasks.

The ‘design, make, and evaluate’ approach ensures pupils engage in the complete design cycle. Progress is assessed through assessments and practical project evaluations. The curriculum promotes cultural awareness by exploring design and technology from different cultures and historical periods.

D&T at Westminster prepares pupils for secondary education and careers in design, engineering, architecture, and technology-related fields. Pupils develop transferable skills like teamwork, communication, time management, and resilience, preparing them for success in any path they choose.

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