Design and Technology

Why study this subject?

Problem solving and making the world a better place through Design and Technology is the ultimate aim of the subject. Addressing real world issues, the subject area develops an interest in the world, how things work and how we can improve upon what currently exists. The subject would suit students who enjoy learning through designing and making working prototypes.

The aim of the subject is to provide an insight into a rapidly changing world. Through a subject that has an enormous influence on many aspects of life in modern society. This is achieved by encouraging enquiry into this absorbing area of Science, Technology.

This is a subject where you have the opportunity to literally make a difference to the future.

What skills will you develop?

Students become more innovative, develop exceptional problem-solving skills, and enhance their creativity and critical thinking skills through the consideration of real-world problems and in production of working prototypes.

Students will develop outstanding team working skills and expertise in Project management self-management, and resilience.

Students will gain insight and skills in manufacturing their ideas through the application of CAD and CAM alongside the more traditional methods of manufacture.

What are the key elements to the course?

There are two specialisms available to students:

Design Engineering: A practical designing and making course, students frequently apply the principles learned in physics and mathematics. The course focuses on developing students’ understanding of mechanical, electronic, and pneumatic systems alongside sustainability and global environmental considerations to enable them to effectively design and engineer new and innovative products. First-year students undertake a large group challenge alongside smaller tasks which build their theoretical knowledge; last year the focus area was on creating an electric powered drift trike. This task enables students to develop excellent teamworking skills and enables them to work at A Level which is far closer to the kind of challenge experienced at university level.

Product Design: A practical designing and making course that links engineering, architecture, and manufacturing seamlessly into the investigation and exploration of realworld problems. Projects in the first year look at existing products, manufacturing systems, systems, and sensory elements of design. Students also look at how the principles of design, the history of products and the requirements for the future may shape and influence designers. Sustainability and issues linked to current climate issues are also integrated to challenge students to consider global issues linked to design, manufacture, and production with the move towards a circular economy. An iterative design method is followed with the focus on the development of prototypes through a range of innovative models.

The second year’s focus for both specialisms is on the students identifying and solving a real-world design problem for a primary user. The tasks chosen are very much student led and are often tailored to their future aspirations. This aspect brings together the student’s creative skills and technical understanding, giving them the knowledge, understanding and skills to flourish on a design or engineering based course.