What is Design and Technology?
It is not cookery, it is not needlework, it is not home economics, it is not gender specific... so what is it?
Design and Technology is a skills based subject that follows the design process used in industry. Pupils learn how to follow a design brief with consideration to target markets and costing. They cover a range of research techniques that use the internet, questionnaires and product analysis. They create their own ideas and develop them into a working product. They understand industrial methods of production whilst still learning the basic skills of making. They analyse and evaluate their projects. They assess their practical work and set targets for their IT skills in the presentation and communication of their work. They learn in a safe environment and are encouraged to be confident, individual and creative. So, open your mind and cast off your expectations and welcome to Design and Technology.
‘...creativity now is as important in education as literacy, and we should support it with the same status.' Sir Ken Robinson
KEY STAGE 3 & 4
Subjects taught on a carousal basis with 10 weeks in each area.
Year | Lessons per fortnight | Textiles | Food |
7 | 3 doubles | Storage units | Pizza |
8 | 3 doubles | Memory cushions | Multi Cultural |
9 | 2 doubles | Hoodies | Mini Bakewell tarts |
Food Technology and Textiles Technology can be opted for at GCSE level. The coursework element is worth 60% and a written examination is 40% of the final mark.
Sixth Form
Design and Technology; Product Design - Textiles
The course consists of two units per year; a coursework project and a two hour written paper. The design brief is a free choice for the student who can use a client if they want to and they are able to explore all possible solutions. Students gain high grades in this subject. Recently, a couple of students have gone on to study fashion in London. Francesca Buss was awarded the John James Tools of the Trade grant so that she could purchase equipment needed for a career in fashion.
Design and Technology; Food Technology The course consists of two units in each year; a coursework portfolio and a two hour written exam. The portfolio in year 12 is divided into two sections. The first section is based on a savoury main meal for a target group of their own choice and the second section is developing an existing dessert product. In year 13 they follow a design brief of their own choice. The course looks at many areas of the food industry, including nutrition, food science, food choice, food hygiene, and food poisoning. Pupils gained 100% pass rate of C and above at A2 level in the summer 2011.