Design Technology
Philosophy
- To create an environment which affords an authentic and flexible learning experience for all students.
- To generate an awareness of the ways in which Design & Technology and Vocational Learning, affects all aspects of working life.
Aims
- To promote confidence and competence in the use of a range of different Technologies.
- To develop an understanding of how Technology and the technological process can be used to help find solutions to problems in a wide range of situations, and to be aware of limitations.
- To provide experience of handling a variety of materials and related equipment, and to develop a problem-solving approach through experimentation, group work and production of high quality products.
- To encourage an understanding of the activities of the modern commercial and manufacturing world, and an appreciation of the need for economic awareness in relation to time and materials.
Key Stage 3: Years 7-9
That each student will gain experience in designing and making, in areas such as ICT, Resistant Materials (wood, metal and plastic) CAD/CAM, Electronics, Textiles and Food.
That every student will be given the opportunity and support to meet the National Curriculum attainment targets at appropriate levels, according to his or her ability. We hope to offer a Level 1 Fabrication course to Gifted and Talented groups of Students.
Two year 9 groups of Gifted & Talented pupils will complete a NCFE Course in one area of Design & Technology worth half a GCSE, giving them 23 points towards future courses.
Key Stage 4: Year 10 & 11
Pupils will complete a two year NCFE course in Creative Crafts giving the pupil a ‘B’ grade GCSE equivalent (46 points) towards future courses. This can be done through the Textiles, Food or Resistant Materials areas of Design & Technology. This course is 100% coursework with no end examination.
Pupils also sit a CGLI Level 2 qualification in Health & Safety in the workplace.