Design and Technology

Introduction

The department consists of two workshops and three classrooms, which are well equipped with computers and technology equipment. In addition there are two smaller specialist rooms, one is dedicated to engineering and CADCAM, also with a 3d-printer, the other is a computer and study room.

The department is particularly well equipped with a full range of traditional tools and machines for working in wood, metals and plastics. We are also particularly well resourced with equipment for teaching systems and control, engineering, electronics and graphics. The department has a large number of PCs and all students in Year 9 Engineering and Design Technology will experience the Solidworks CADCAM software. All of our PCs are connected to the school network giving both Internet access and Intranet.

All students at KS4 have two lessons of Design and Technology every week.
At GCSE we offer Design Technology, Food, Engineering.
All GCSE groups have three single 60 minute lessons.
In years 12/13 the department offers EDEXCEL Product Design at AS and A2.

A dedicated and committed team of staff work with pupils of all abilities to help them to enjoy, experience success and achieve their full potential. All Students have the opportunity to design and make items using a wide range of media. They learn to think and intervene creatively to improve their and others quality of life.

The subject calls for pupils to become appreciative, creative, problem solvers, to work as an individual and as a member of a team. The use of IT and CAD/CAM is an important aspect of all our courses and all students are actively encouraged to use our extensive facilities to the full, before school and after school to enhance their design work and practical outcomes.