Design & Technology
“Rarely do we see immediate use of innovative technologies. I believe that the future is built by small pieces that add up.”
- Neri Oxman
Design Technology Vision
Design is a verb; it is about thinking but most importantly of thinking creatively. A way of doing, to design is to bring to reality. Logical, creative and practical it is the opportunity to apply maths and science to create innovation. Design students are given opportunities to make connections with the mind and body, through a practical skills based and knowledge rich curriculum that is reachable for all. Design students see what others can’t, design is much more than problem solving, it is the physical creation of new thoughts. Innovation combined with creativity can provide solutions to the challenges of the future and through design students are empowered to problem solve the 21st Century.
KS3 Curriculum Map
The below map details an overview of a student's journey through KS3 (Y7-9), this is a model of how the curriculum is delivered and may vary from term to term which order students access each topic depending on timetabling. We focus on the subject areas of Design, Graphics, Textiles, Food and Workshop skills. Each project aims to capture skills that transfer from one project to another and from one topic to another. Often combining skills; such as in Year 7 Textiles, we generate and learn about design through graphic communication with a textile based outcome, this enables students to receive a wide range of practical and theoretical knowledge to prepare them for optimal choice at KS4.
Revision Provisions
Revisions here
What is Design Technology?
GCSE Design and Technology will prepare students to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world. Students will gain awareness and learn from wider influences on Design and Technology including historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic factors. Students will get the opportunity to work creatively when designing and making and apply technical and practical expertise. You will study core technical and designing and making principles, including a broad range of design processes, materials techniques and equipment. They will also study in greater depth technical principles surrounding the use of timbers and boards.
Who might enjoy this course?
Creative yet solution driven students who enjoy applying maths and science principles to reach a variety of outcomes. This is a workshop based yet theoretical course which allows students academic insight into the world of design and technology. For the inventors and future problem solvers of the world.
Skills
developed
developed
Identifying and investigating design possibilities, Producing a design brief and specification, Generating design ideas, Developing design ideas, Realising design ideas and Analysing & evaluating. You will also develop a variety of hands-on and practical skills such as operating and using machinery and hand tools.
What about exams? What will I study?
You will undertake a substantial Design and Make task set by the exam board which makes up 50% of your overall grade (coursework) and complete a written theory exam which is also worth 50% of your overall grade.
What could I do next with GCSE Design and Technology?
Further education would lead to A-Level Product Design, Level 3 Engineering or construction courses or apprenticeships with a trade/engineering route. This course would develop skills leading to many industries such as; engineering, product design, product development, architecture, carpentry, electrical and mechanical trades.