Intent
The Design Technology and Engineering Department aims to offer an invigorating, challenging and high-quality experience which promotes innovation, resourcefulness and independent learning; encouraging all pupils to reach their full potential. Design Technology covers four key areas: Food, Engineering, Graphics and Textiles. The subject intentions are to provide lessons of interest and relevance so that pupils may be motivated to be creative, imaginative and inspired.
Implementation
Pupils are introduced to each of the four areas of study. Here they will get a taste for each area creating a grounding for future study and produce items that can be taken home.
Years Seven and Eight
Pupils are introduced to each of the four areas of study. Here they will get a taste for each area creating a grounding for future study and produce items that can be taken home.
Exam groups (Years Nine, Ten, and Eleven)
We currently offer recognised qualifications in the following courses:
Engineering
https://www.eduqas.co.uk/qualifications/engineering/
Skills gained: Application of materials, equipment and processes, designing, drawing skills and the ability to read technical drawings, use of CAD / CAM.
Food
https://www.eduqas.co.uk/qualifications/hospitality-and-catering/
Skills gained: Practical Cooking Skills, Diet and Nutrition, Food Safety and Hygiene, Food Provenance and Choice.
Expectations
Respect for the working environment and Health and Safety procedures will be expected from all pupils.
In Food they will need to bring ingredients as required for their cooking.
Resources
Three purpose equipped work areas that include access to a wide range of resources: a fully equipped workshop with modern CAD/CAM facilities, a dedicated textiles room and a multi station kitchen / food preparation room.
Impact
Design Technology and Engineering will make students more aware of products and processes in everyday life and industry, to be able to make informed environmental decisions, improve communication skills, acquire practical skills, apply skills from across the curriculum in Maths, Science, English, Art and ICT and develop their problem-solving skills.
Most importantly it gives students skills for life.
Achievements, Awards and Enrichment
There are annual awards presented in the summer to pupils who have excelled or who have worked hard; there are also visits to institutes, exhibitions and fun educational days out.
Cross Curricular
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) days are held in school and off site, including visits to local primary schools where students deliver STEM experiences.
Extra-Curricular
Classes are offered after school and during some lunch breaks to give pupils additional help with finishing class work or to offer further extension work.