Design Technology
Subject Overview
Design 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. Students will acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. They will learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, students will 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.
Students will engage in a variety of creative and practical activities. Students will gain the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to engage in an iterative process of designing and making. Design and Technology is delivered by dedicated staff in specialist facilities. The department operates from the Coniston Block at Wellfield Academy in a well-equipped workshop.
Throughout their time in Design and Technology, students will:
• develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world
• 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
• critique, evaluate and test their ideas and products and the work of others
Design and Technology Subject Staff
| Mr Reeves | Teacher of Design and Technology |
KS3 Design and Technology
In Years 7 and 8, Design Technology is taught once a week. In Year 9 this subject is taught as a carousel of subjects where students rotate between Food Technology, Drama and Design Technology. Students are set in mixed ability classes.
KS4 Design and Technology
At GCSE, students follow the OCR Design Technology specification, developing a broad understanding of design, materials, manufacturing processes, sustainability, wider issues and the impact of technology on society. Students study core theory including material properties and uses, specialist technical principles, product analysis, design communication, ergonomics, environmental considerations, mechanisms, systems, CAD/CAM, industrial manufacturing and quality control. Alongside this theory, students complete a range of focused practical projects that allow them to apply their knowledge in real contexts, develop confidence with tools, equipment and processes, and strengthen their problem-solving and iterative design skills. These projects are designed to support theory learning while preparing students for the demands of the Non-Exam Assessment, which begins at the end of Year 10 and continues throughout Year 11. Through the GCSE course, students build the technical knowledge, practical capability and independent design thinking needed to create and evaluate successful design solutions.
