Helping Year 6 pupils with SEND feel confident for secondary school D&T

Published 14th October 2025

“Dexter’s Tech-Tastic First Day” continues to make a real difference in helping Year 6 pupils with SEND feel more confident as they move into secondary school design and technology.

This graphic-style resource has become a valuable tool for teachers supporting pupils through the transition process. Designed to introduce students to the D&T workshop before they arrive, it uses QR codes to bring the experience to life. Pupils can scan the codes to hear the sounds of different machines and see them in action, helping them to understand what to expect in their new environment.

For many young people with SEND, new surroundings and unfamiliar equipment can feel overwhelming. “Dexter’s Tech-Tastic First Day” helps reduce that anxiety by making the workshop setting more familiar, building reassurance and excitement before they even step through the door.

Teachers have found it particularly useful for starting conversations about safety, equipment and what happens in D&T lessons. The interactive approach also encourages pupils to explore independently, developing curiosity and confidence at their own pace.

By blending accessibility with creativity, “Dexter’s Tech-Tastic First Day” demonstrates how simple, inclusive resources can make a big difference. It reminds us that with the right support, every pupil can begin their design and technology journey feeling ready, confident and eager to learn.

You can download the "Dexter’s Tech-Tastic First Day" poster below to use in your own classroom.

If you’re looking for more resources to support pupils with SEND in design and technology, visit the SEN section of our Resource Shop to explore our range of classroom materials designed to help every student thrive.