Design and Technology

Design and Technology is a subject that plays an increasingly fundamental role in our everyday lives. Girls creatively draw on a broad range of inspiration while developing their projects. Design and Technology is well suited to girls who have an interest in the careers of the future such as engineering, architecture, product design and graphic design.

KEY STAGE 3

During Key Stage 3, there are two main areas of focus, namely Product Design and Food Technology with a distinct emphasis on Product Design. Students analyse the design, materials and manufacturing processes of existing products as well as conduct research, design, construct and evaluate their own projects. They use 2D Design Tools and Prodesktop to learn technical skills and use hand tools, machinery and CAD CAM in a state of the art workshop to bring their designs to life.

The second stream, Food Technology, develops students confidence as consumers and provides the opportunity for creative, purposeful and skilled practical work. They are taught about healthy eating, what makes a balanced meal and develop their practical skills in food preparation.

GCSE

Students study product specifications, evaluate existing products, generate design proposals and select appropriate materials, tools and equipment. They also develop awareness of consumer requirements, ICT skills, including CAD and CAM design software packages and knowledge of manufacturing processes.

They:

• develop awareness of consumer requirements of a product;
• analyse products and the processes used to manufacture them; and
• work practically with either wood, metal and plastics; or semi-resistant materials.

Girls in Year 9 used local architecture for inspiration in this project.

Inspiration:	Inspiration: Wembley Arena	Inspiration:
Inspiration: Gherkin		Inspiration: City Hall

SIXTH FORM

While this is a challenging course, it allows students to develop creative and entrepreneurial skills, while applying their knowledge and understanding to a range of technological activities. Students study, propose and realise prototype solutions to design opportunities closely linked to the real world of product and manufacture. It is very beneficial should you be considering a career in the fields of engineering, design or manufacturing. The learning approach employed teaches students to solve problems logically and is similar to that experienced in higher education.

Click to download the attached file(s):
• Product Design
• GCSE
• A Level
• 2007 Arkwright Scholars