- jAK_8550
Design and Technology
'Design is a formal response to a strategic question' - Mariona Lopez
Are you a practical person or a problem solver? In this increasingly technological world being able to solve, design and make is even more important. We provide these skills whether it is in food preparation, designing electronics or hands on tasks.
Design Technology is a blend between knowledge, core organisational and practical skills. Throughout KS3 students will experience all the key areas of DT: Control, Electronics, Food, Computer and Hand Graphics, Resistant Materials (working in a workshop) and Textiles. At KS4 students can specialise in a discrete area where they can really develop their practical and designing skills. A level subjects are available in many areas.
Typically students will spend at least half their time on practical activities. They might be designing and making a mechanical toy, a new board game or learning how to prepare basic meals. As students’ progress through the school these projects become more complex - electronic security systems, fashion wear, full oriental meals or statement furniture.
Along the way we broaden the experience through enrichment lessons, competitions (flying start, Lego Robotics etc), Catwalk shows, visits to museums and companies. We also work closely with local industry and community projects both inside and outside school.
A good Technology student is inquisitive, self-confident, and independent with excellent knowledge and practical skills.
All design subjects follow the design cycle, which takes a product from inception to completion. This process is mirrored at all Key Stages. KS3 this process is split into 4 strands (Research and investigation, designing, planning and making, and Evaluating).
At KS3, each year builds upon earlier ones and we would expect the capability of the students to improve year on year. For instance, we would expect the depth and analysis of research and investigation to develop through the years. Coupled with this (through the National Curriculum) there is a requirement that that explore a range of technology areas.
At KS4, we are a mix of different subjects, which all loosely follow this format however; each aspect is approached differently to fit with the specific needs of that subject. For instance in engineering these aspects are fairly well defined and supported by technical knowledge and numeracy skills whilst in Hospitality and Catering the designing is less prevalent; however, there is an emphasis on the science of food.
Textiles now follows an Art and Design route where these broad themes still exist however the emphasis in on the developmental stage
Please see the Design & Technology curriculum overviews for each Key Stage below.
Staff:
Mrs T Cummins: Technology
Mrs H Butt: Technology
Mr E Fair: Technology
Mr D Billington:Technology
Technicians:
Miss J Adcock
Mr J Brown
