Curriculum Intent:
At The Axis Academy, our core moral purpose is clear: Transforming Lives. This vision shapes every aspect of our Design and Technology (D&T) curriculum, which is deliberately crafted to provide a trauma-informed, therapeutic learning environment where students can rediscover their confidence, engage meaningfully in education, and build real-world skills that support their long-term well-being and success.
We recognise that many of our learners have experienced significant barriers to learning. Therefore, our D&T provision is intentionally different—designed to be adaptive, inclusive, and emotionally safe. Rooted in our core values—being child-centred, responsive to individual needs, and authentic in relationships—we offer a curriculum that values every learner’s story, rebuilds trust in education, and nurtures both emotional and academic development.
At Key Stage 3, students are introduced to the fundamentals of design, materials, tools, and making through a theory and practical-based programme. Carefully sequenced projects support engagement, exploration, and success, encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and technical competence. Lessons are tailored to meet learners where they are—offering accessible, hands-on tasks that promote independence, resilience, and pride in achievement.
At Key Stage 4, learners follow the OCR Cambridge National in Engineering Design (Level 1/2)—a vocationally relevant qualification that equips students with knowledge and skills in technical drawing, CAD software, design theory, and manufacturing processes. The course provides clear, aspirational pathways to further education and industry, and is designed to be both achievable and challenging, reflecting our high expectations for every student.
In line with our belief that every teacher is a teacher of literacy, we actively develop subject-specific language, reading, writing, and speaking across all key stages. Numeracy is embedded through measuring, scaling, and technical calculations. Science and engineering principles are explored through investigations of materials and mechanisms. These connections help students understand the relevance of core subjects and apply their knowledge practically and meaningfully.
We place a strong emphasis on cultural capital by exposing students to the broader world of design and engineering—from sustainability and technological innovation to careers, workplace contexts, and role models. Our aim is to expand horizons and show learners that their skills and ideas have value and purpose beyond the classroom.
Through a nurturing, structured workshop environment, we help learners re-engage with learning, develop practical skills, and believe in their potential. Whether through designing products, solving problems, or achieving qualifications, our students are supported to build self-worth, discover talents, and prepare for fulfilling futures.
At Axis, we do things differently—because our learners need and deserve something different. Through Design and Technology, we offer a curriculum of creativity, connection, and confidence—empowering every student to succeed, flourish, and shape their own future.
What does our learning journey look like? Design Technology Road Map