Design and Technology

 
The study of Design and Technology equips pupils with a foundation of knowledge, which can provide a pathway into a variety of careers. The subject not only encompasses investigation into a broad range of manufacturing processes, materials and techniques, but, more importantly, provides opportunities for pupils to develop research and analytical skills, and to gain experience of project management in addition to working as part of a team. These are viewed as essential, transferable skills, which will build confidence and provide a platform upon which to develop study at higher levels.

 
A knowledge of traditional manufacturing techniques and modern industrial methods such as, composites laminating, affords the pupils the opportunity to develop their skills in a wide range of processes and their confidence in a similarly wide range of materials. The use of the computer aided design package ProDesktop, for example, is widely used and can be directly linked to Computer controlled Routing machines to give full CAD/CAM opportunities.
 
The opportunities and experiences of the pupils within the department give rise to imaginative project work. Whether communicating ideas graphically, on computer or paper, manufacturing in resistant materials, testing or writing an evaluation report, pupils are encouraged to meet the highest standards.
 
Resistant Materials: Years 7, 8 and 9
In Years 7, 8 and 9 Design Technology is compulsory and pupils produce a range of design solutions to set design briefs. These solutions are realised in a range of materials including wood, metal and plastics. The aim of these projects is to give experience in working with resistant materials whilst at the same time introducing design graphics, mechanisms, simple electronics and computer aided design and manufacture.
 
GCSE
Pupils who opt for CDT follow the Edexcel Resistant Materials syllabus. This is a popular option choice with two teaching sets from each year group. The syllabus is modern in its approach and easily accessible for all pupils, whatever their area of particular interest. The assessment for the course is a one and a half hour theory exam (40%) and one practical project and design folder (60%).  A range of project themes are set by the exam board each year but are varied enough to allow a wide range of creative responses from students. The practical work and design folders are completed under controlled conditions in lesson time.

 
1. Project and Design Folder (60% of the total marks) Any combination of materials can be used in the manufacture of the practical project. Students also produce a design folder showing design development and decisions made, construction record, testing and evaluations. The accompanying A3 folder will be      approximately 15-20 pages in length. (Internally marked, externally moderated).
 
2. Written Theory Exam (1½ hours) (40% of the total marks). The examination at the end of the course is worth 40% of the total marks. The theory exam covers all resistant materials and their      respective joining and manufacturing technology. The exam is a graduated paper starting from multiple choice questions to short answer ones through to extended writing questions.
 
 
The Sixth Form
The A level course also follows the Edexcel Resistant Materials syllabus and attract a good number of pupils. The course consists of four units, two for AS and two for A2, each lasting a term.
 
The AS and A2 courses require both a theoretical knowledge and the skill to apply that knowledge to a range of practical projects, design folders and written reports.