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.

A Level Curriculum

Design and Technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. The A2 course offers students the opportunity to be both creative and innovative, responding to live briefs and specific client needs. Students are encouraged to develop their problem solving skills when designing and making high quality final products. Students must identify market needs, wants, aspirations and values. Students build their skills in thinking and designing to support the requirements that they will need to demonstrate when progressing to higher education or industry.

We offer two courses at A level from which students can choose only one. Product Design and Design Engineering. Both courses are very similar in content, but Design Engineering is better suited to those students who have an added interest in designing electronic circuits and mechanisms. Both courses are popular with students and work is celebrated at the end of the A2 year with a Major project exhibition.

Co-curricular, Enrichment, Extension and Support

• ‘Open door’ support sessions for students. Lunchtime and afternoon support sessions run in the DT workshop for students.
• Twilight support sessions – led by DT teachers, these are sessions where students can come along to get help with specific areas of the course
• Students will get the opportunity to visit the ‘New designers’ exhibition amongst other trips tailored for the sixth form students.