Nottingham Trust Hosts Targeted INSET for Primary Educators
Published 20th June 2025
Nottingham Schools Trust recently welcomed teachers from across the region to an inspiring professional development session focused on embedding effective progression within the primary D&T curriculum. Hosted by the Trust and led by D&T Association Curriculum Consultant Lol Conway, the INSET brought together classroom teachers and subject leads for a deep dive into curriculum design rooted in clarity and long-term planning.
Lol, who brings extensive experience from secondary teaching, teacher training and national curriculum development, guided attendees through what progression should look like from EYFS through to upper Key Stage 2. With practical insights drawn from the National Curriculum, attendees explored ways to sequence learning so that skills and knowledge build meaningfully over time.
Key frameworks explored included Investigative and Evaluative Activities (IEAs), Focused Tasks (FTs), and Design, Make and Evaluate Assignments (DMEAs). Teachers were encouraged to think beyond traditional project-led structures, instead using progression frameworks to shape purposeful projects.
Included in the session was an overview of 'Projects on a Page' including how to implement it in the classroom. Attendees also took part in collaborative planning activities, using resources to refine their current D&T currriculum.
Lol Conway explains, "Working with the Nottingham Schools Trust is always a pleasure. Their commitment to developing both their teachers and the subject of Design and Technology is clear, and it's been a privilege to support them over the past three years through tailored INSET sessions. The teachers consistently bring enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a spirit of collaboration that fosters rich discussions—like in our most recent session, where progression through the curriculum sparked some truly valuable dialogue."
The day concluded with a positive energy and a clear message that a well-sequenced D&T curriculum not only meets national standards but also sparks innovation, supports inclusivity, and gives pupils the tools to become creative problem-solvers for life.
For ongoing support, the D&T Association offers webinars, resources, and further training opportunities to help teachers build confidence in delivering impactful D&T education across the key stages.
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