DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY  

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Design and Technology can be a very broad subject.  At KS3, the strand of DT that we follow tends to be the practical resistant materials area. Although there is a linear pattern of projects and topics to study in each year, in reality a student may arrive at any point in the academic year so a certain flexibility and tailoring of project to student is required. Where possible this will tie in and support the students most recent or relevant DT work, or the student’s own areas of interest.  

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There is a very well-equipped, purpose-built workshop so practical work forms the core of any topic. However, relevant DT knowledge, theory and design skills are also included. Projects also sequentially contain the concepts of (1) engagement, (2) safe practice and sensible behaviour, and (3) return to school or preparation for employment. Practical work requires focus and determination, and most students enjoy the challenge this presents, with many students able to demonstrate strengths with fine motor skills that perhaps they did not realise they possessed. The approach taken with students is positive and supportive, recognising that students present with in a wider variety of behaviours, so the Social, Emotional & Mental Health needs of each individual student are considered and learning materials adapted and differentiated.  

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Students are taught skills and have the opportunity to demonstrate and build on these skills.  Practical work is supported by reading in the form of worksheets and textbooks for research, and written responses that demonstrate the knowledge gained through the tasks are required.    

 

At KS4 our pupils are given more choice in terms of possible project outcomes. Within the bounds of what is possible, we aim to discuss with students' their ideas and plan projects based on their learning needs and goals.

For some students this may take the form of accessing the KS3 menu of topics in order to re-familiarise themselves with workshop routines, use of machines and health and safety. For others, having a well equipped workshop on site presents the opportunity to be more adventurous and to perhaps create furnishings and products for their own use at home. All KS4 students are encouraged to build and keep an evidence portfolio of their work and progress in design technology. Ideally, this can go with them to another school and help towards qualifications or as examples to show at interview as they enter the work.

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Studying DT can lead to an apprenticeship or employment in a construction trade such as joinery, and it has transferable skills that support learning a trade, or wider areas of employment, and variations of the subject can be studied at A level and beyond.