KS3 Design and Technology

During KS3 pupils undertake a number of varied and exciting projects in their design and technology lessons. We focus on the area of ‘Product Design’ as a STEM subject, making possible further study and careers in this area post sixteen. All students can expect to work with and learn about a broad range of materials such as woods, manufactured boards, plastics, Styrofoam and metals as well as using a number of ready-made components.  Students will also gain experience of industrial techniques such as CAD/CAM where possible.  Projects have been specifically designed to cover many areas so students gain maximum benefit from the subject. As well as Resistant Materials projects we also cover basic electronics, systems and control where students learn how to solder. Students are supported to participate in every stage of the design process. This can include learning activities such as researching, analysing products, designing, developing ideas, modelling, planning, constructing, testing and evaluating. The subject really does offer something to cater for every pupil's interests; whether it is drawing, making or planning, we build on their skills (regardless of ability) and develop their confidence and independence in the workshop. 

Students also have a double lesson of Food & Nutrition, where they look at the principles of nutrition as well as learning the basic skills for them to successfully achieve a formal qualification at Key Stage four.  Much of the Food curriculum at Key Stage three is based on life skills and their own personal development.

KS3 Art and Design

Art and design stimulates creativity and imagination. It provides visual, tactile and sensory experiences and a unique way of understanding and responding to the world around us. Our students use colour, form, texture, pattern, design and different materials (ceramics, glass, fabric etc) and processes to communicate what they see, feel and think. Students learn to make informed judgements and aesthetic and practical decisions, and a key part of the KS3 curriculum is exploring ideas and meanings in the work of artists, craftspeople and designers. Art is particularly valuable for our students. They are encouraged to develop their talent and depth of understanding in order to progress further their explorations during KS4. This sense of achievement increases their self-confidence, which may overlap into other areas of their school and social life.

At KS4 - GCSE Design and Technology and GCSE Food & Nutrition are available, as well as NCFE Level one or two qualifications.

Product Design GCSE covers all areas of the design process following on from the KS3 curriculum. Pupils are able to undertake a number of design and make projects in year ten leading to a design folio and prototype of their idea in year 11. This has a final examined component in the summer of year 11. During KS4 – GCSE photography is offered.

Pupils are taught the technical aspects of photography as well as artistic processes like perspective, framing and pinhole photography. The GCSE is examined through a portfolio of their work examining their and other artists work in order to influence their own progression. This also has an internally examined component which will be through a timed portfolio element in the Jan/Feb of year 11.

In GCSE Food and Nutrition, students spend year 10 acquiring both the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills required in order to successfully undertake two pieces of controlled assessment as well as the final written examination.   One controlled assessment unit is based on an investigation into food properties, whilst the other concentrates on practical cookery skills.

In NCFE level two Food & Cookery award, students undertake a variety of practical and written tasks which make up a portfolio of evidence.  There is no written examination.