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Special Talent: Design Technology
DESIGN TECHNOLOGY (DT)
Expectations
Design Technology deals with solving problems by making or building. It also covers systems and electronics so it is a wide field, running from Science and Engineering at one end of the spectrum to Fine Art at the other.
Encompassing the study of materials and construction, it requires a delight in how things work and why things have been built as they are.
Candidates are expected to show an enthusiasm for the subject, demonstrated by an involvement in technological activity beyond the classroom; an enquiring mind shown by being known for taking apart (and rebuilding) almost anything; and a lively interest in what makes the world tick.
Year 7: involved in one or more Departmental activities each week, taking a leading role promoting the activity within the peer group.
Year 9: involved in Departmental activities and taking Design Technology as a Year 9 option and to GCSE. Year 12: showing an awareness of the place and importance of technology and design in the world today, assisting the Department in special events and taking Design Technology as an A Level option.
Assessments for Award:
All candidates must provide a written report from their current DT teacher, detailing their talent, commitment and approach to the subject.
Year 7 and 9: An interview is arranged during a visit to the DT Department, providing an opportunity for the Head of DT or other Departmental staff to talk with the potential scholar.
Candidates will be required to bring the following: • A portfolio of photographs and drawings of things made. Any transportable models should be brought in. Digital images are also acceptable and can be sent to the • Admissions department. A set of drawn design ideas from a design problem which will be sent to the applicant prior to the interview. Candidates will be expected to attend together for a series of practical technological exercises run by a member of staff.
Year 12: An interview is arranged during a visit to the DT Department, providing an opportunity for the Head of DT or other Departmental staff to talk with the potential scholar.
Candidates will be required to bring the following: • A portfolio to offer evidence of technological capability; showing artefacts, systems or other outcomes which have been produced. These should be supported by project folders which demonstrate the graphical, investigative, and problem • solving ability of the candidate. An explanation of the background to the projects offered as well as • the principles involved. Evidence of GCSE coursework or equivalent.
Overseas candidates MUST submit photographs, digital files etc to provide evidence of work which is supported by a reference from an DT teacher at their current school. Candidates awarded a Special Talent Scholarship based on photographic or recorded evidence, will have their skills tested on arrival.
