Design and technology has a statutory programme of study at Key Stage 3. The statutory programmes of study are an important element of the wider curriculum and establish the core entitlement for all students.

In design and technology students combine practical and technological skills with creative thinking to design and make products and systems that meet human needs. They learn to use current technologies and consider the impact of future technological developments. They learn to think creatively and intervene to improve the quality of life, solving problems as individuals and members of a team.

During the key stage students are offered opportunities that are integral to their learning and enhance their engagement with different design concepts and processes within the different material areas provided in this subject. The curriculum provides opportunities for students to:

• Analyse products to learn how they function.
• Undertake focused tasks that develop knowledge, skills and understanding of design and make assignments.
• Engage in design and make assignments including for purposes and uses beyond the classroom.
• Work individually and in teams, taking on different roles and responsibilities.
• Work with designers and makers where possible to develop an understanding of the product design process.
• Use ICT as appropriate for image capture and generation; data acquisition, capture and handling; controlling; and product realisation.
• Make links between design and technology and other subjects and areas of the curriculum.