Design and Technology

 Design and Technology develops skills that can lead to careers in Manufacturing, Engineering, Architecture, Building trades, and many more besides. The problem solving and communication skills are but two of the many invaluable qualities that this subject will nurture; qualities highly regarded by colleges universities and employers.

Key Stage 3

 Students experience their technology as part or a rotation. These subjects include: Engineering, Design and Technology, Catering, Graphic Design and Computer Science. These consist of six weekly projects; practical and hands-on from the start, students learn by doing; gaining direct experience of the available materials and tools. Students practice with small exercises; building skills and confidence, before tackling their project brief.

 Students will undertake drawing exercises and will have the opportunity to develop their ICT skills with Computer Aided Design; this is all part of the skills needed to communicate ideas.

 In Year 7 Technology projects include; Mechanical Car Challenge, Pewter Cast Jewellery, Laminated Clock and a Packaging Project. All projects have aspects of CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing) integrated.

 In Year 8 Technology projects include; Art Deco Clock, Balancing Toy, Desk Tidy, Mobile Phone Holder and Mechanical Card Project. Again all projects have aspects of CAD/CAM integrated.

 In Year 9 Students will further develop their Engineering and Design and Technology skills, solving problems by designing and manufacturing projects using the design process. These projects include; Lighting, Travel and Communication, 3D Design and Print Project.

At Key Stage 4

It’s a practical approach that encourages students to design and make products with creativity and originality. This includes a variety of practical activities, using a range of materials and techniques. Students learning at KS3 is further developed in the following areas; woods, metals, plastics, composite materials, systems & control of the design process and CAD/CAM.

The Design and Technology qualification is assessed by: Non-exam assessment 50% (students undertake one design and make project, choosing one design brief from a prescribed list) and an Exam 50% (two hour duration)