Design Technology
Design and Technology is a well-resources and popular subject at KS4, GCSE and A-Level. The emphasis of study, at all levels, is to nurture innovation in design, enabling students to create fit-for-purpose products aimed at a specific client, group or in response to a contextual challenge. Students have the opportunity to employ a wide variety of modern and traditional research, design and manufacturing systems to produce high-quality 2D design and 3D products.
Computer-aided Design and Manufacture such as; laser cutting, engraving and 3D printing, is taught alongside traditional design and manufacturing methods, providing pupils with the opportunity to gain a variety of skills and knowledge relating to design and manufacture in the modern world.
At KS3, and in line with the National Curriculum, our aim is to encourage students to think creatively and practically to solve problems and create innovative products. The curriculum is structured around the key areas of Design, Make, Evaluate and Technical Principles. Students are taught how to research and develop design ideas, plan and manufacture high-quality outcomes using a range of tools and materials, and evaluate both their own products and that of existing designers, critically. They develop further understanding of technical knowledge including materials, manufacturing processes, and the principles that underpin successful design.
GCSE Design & Technology provides students with the opportunity to understand and apply an iterative design process through which they explore, design and evaluate a range of outcomes. The qualification enables students to use creativity and imagination to design and make prototypes (together with evidence of modelling, to develop and prove product concept and function), that solve real and relevant problems, considering their own and others needs, wants and values. It gives students opportunities to apply knowledge from other disciples, including mathematics, science, art and design, computing, engineering and the humanities.