Design Technology

Our KS3 Design curriculum allows students the opportunity to design, make and evaluate a range of different products/outcomes using a range of different tools and resources. Whilst students will follow set briefs, the schemes of learning allow students opportunities to develop their own original creative responses by applying different skills and knowledge in different settings. As Design is part of the Creative Arts faculty, the aim is to promote creativity and support students to think imaginatively when problem solving, designing and making. Our KS3 Design curriculum provides all students the chance to develop key skills and knowledge required at KS4 through the specifications on offer. Students will access industry style tools, resources, skills and knowledge, such as the use of CAD/CAM and laser/3D printers, workshop tools, photography manipulation software, whilst also preparing industry style dishes in an industry style kitchen.

At KS4, students will be able to continue exploring the world of Design through the qualifications that we offer (Product Design, Photography, Hospitality & Catering & Construction). Each KS4 course builds on skills and knowledge developed at KS3: use of hand tools/workshop tools and skills such as measuring and cutting, the taking of and manipulation of photographs using specialist software, the use of 2D design and 3D production through the use of 3D printing and laser cutting, and the exploration of level 1/2 dishes and skills at KS3, which students can then apply to future coursework/examinations at KS4.  Linking with KS3, students at KS4 will continue to design, make and evaluate creative work, whether it be an original photography portfolio, or a themed 3 course menu.

Ultimately, throughout our entire Design curriculum across KS3 and KS4, whilst students will explore different areas of design and work towards producing differing outcomes, across all specialisms students will develop transferable skills required in the world of Design Technology.