Technology Curriculum Intent

Design and Technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Using creativity and imagination, pupils design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. They acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, they develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world. High-quality design and technology education makes an essential contribution to the creativity, culture, wealth and well-being of the nation. 

Key Stage 3

The curriculum for design and technology aims to ensure that all pupils develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world. Students build and apply a repertoire of knowledge understanding and skills in order to design and make high-quality prototypes and products for a wide range of users. Students critique, evaluate and test their ideas and products and the work of others. They learn, understand and apply the principles of nutrition and learn how to cook. 

Key Stage 3

Students are assessed on a variety of design, making and evaluating tasks as they rotate around the areas of Technology

Design

Students use research and exploration, such as the study of different cultures, to identify and understand user needs and identify and solve their own design problems and understand how to reformulate problems given to them, they develop specifications to inform the design of innovative, functional, appealing products that respond to needs in a variety of situations and use a variety of approaches [for example, biomimicry and user-centred design], to generate creative ideas and avoid stereotypical responses. Students develop and communicate design ideas using annotated sketches, detailed plans, 3-D and mathematical modelling, oral and digital presentations and computer-based tools.

Making

Students select from and use specialist tools, techniques, processes, equipment and machinery precisely, including computer-aided manufacture and select from and use a wider more complex range of materials, components and ingredients taking into account their properties.  

Evaluate

Students analyse the work of past and present professionals and others to develop and broaden their understanding and investigate new and emerging technologies, they test, evaluate and refine their ideas and products against a specification taking into account the views of intended users and other interested groups. Students understand developments in design and technology, its impact on individuals, society and the environment, and the responsibilities of designers, engineers and technologists.

This Course prepares students for careers in the following engineering sectors;
Mechanical, electrical and electronic, aerospace, communications, chemical, civil, automotive,  biomedical, software.