design and technology

Departmental Aims

The aim of the Design and Technology department is to offer opportunities to all students to hone and develop their designing and making skills. Students are encouraged to create products that are fit for purpose and user centred. We aim to achieve this by offering a broad balanced curriculum, which allows students of both sexes to achieve their maximum potential. Programmes of study are differentiated where possible so that all students can succeed on varying levels.

We strive to stimulate a lasting interest in learning through problem solving and technological activities. We attempt to help students to develop their imaginations, sensitivity and creative responses to a wide range of aesthetic experiences.

Design and Technology has an important part to play in helping all students to acquire the knowledge and skills that will be needed in future courses, careers and life in general.

The study of Design and Technology fosters a wide range of desirable qualities, which we value. Pupils need to co-operate with one another and have a responsible attitude for health and safety. Students should develop lively, enquiring minds, the ability to question and argue rationally and to apply themselves to tasks and physical skills, both on their own and in groups.

As a department we aim to promote high standards of academic achievements through designing, making and evaluating results. We aim to work together as an enthusiastic team and promote an environment where all students develop personal responsibility and self-motivation but consider the needs and achievements of others.

Facilities

• The department is well resourced and incorporates the use of modern technologies and manufacturing techniques.
• There are three specialist design suites, one electronics room, a DT lab, and a spacious workshop with a range of machinery used in association with woods, metals and plastics.
• There will be opportunities for students to use Computer Aided Design (CAD) packages in the form of Solid works, 2D designer, and circuit wizard depending on the subject option students choose. The department is well resourced with Computer Aided Manufacture machinery available for students to then manufacture their final products and 3D prototypes. This includes the use of CNC milling machines, laser cutters and 3D printing machines.
• Six full time teachers bring a wealth and variety of expertise to the classroom which includes public examining.
• Our full time technician is dedicated to supporting practical activities which make full use of our well-resourced department.

GCSE Curriculum

Design Technology: Product Design

The Product Design course will focuses upon designing and making products that are fit for a given user problem or scenario. The course will enable students to work with a range of materials that include woods, plastics and metal to create professional and marketable end products. Students will learn about specific materials and manufacturing processes in order to produce high quality products of their own.

Design Technology: Design Engineering

The Design Engineering course is well suited to those students who have a keen interest in designing and making their own electronic circuits to solve a particular problem or need. Students will need to produce a functioning prototype that has a working circuit /system inside to solve a given scenario or problem. The course will appeal to students who are interested in how things work and have an aptitude for electronics and mechanisms.

Both courses strike a good balance between hands-on practical skills and the use of modern technologies when designing new products and systems. There will be opportunities for students to use Computer Aided Design (CAD) packages in the form of Solid works, 2D designer, and circuit wizard depending on the subject option students choose. The department is well resourced with Computer Aided Manufacture machinery available for students to then manufacture their final products and 3D prototypes. This includes the use of CNC lathe, milling machines, laser cutters and 3D printing.

At the end of the course all students will gain the same GCSE qualification in Design Technology – regardless of what course they have followed. The two different subject pathways will not be named specifically on the final qualification. The GCSE Design Technology qualification operates on a level 9–1 awarding.

Co-curricular, Enrichment, Extension and Support

Weekly support sessions for all students who seek additional help with ongoing project work.

Year 7- 9 Extra curricular:

We run a number of extra curricular clubs within the department which include LEGO league club, Textiles club, DCI (Design Create and Innovate) club and an Engineering club. The clubs are popular with students and are always well attended.