Design and Technology

Design and 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. They acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, they 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.

Year 7:

Throughout your time in primary school you will have made some projects based on topics you studied. You may have selected materials and discussed their properties. You may have modelled your ideas and tried to make projects that have working mechanisms. Some of you will have used some hand tools such as junior hacksaws and hand drills. Introduction to the Workshop It is quite common for a workshop to be a new environment for most Year 7 students. Don’t worry, we’ll show you how to stay safe as you get to know your way around.

Projects: Door Sign: Make a Door Sign as you learn how to use machines and tools safely. This will also help you understand the differences between Natural and Manufactured Woods.

NERF Design Project: Communicate designs clearly and investigate independently.

Year 8:

Year 8 focuses on understanding mechnical and electrical systems whilst completing two projects:

Automata:
This teaches students different mechanical systems. Students will use a cam mechanism to make a working Automata. They will also refine their skills with working with wood by making accurate lap joints. They will learn how to use new tools and equipment such as tri squares, disc sanders and marking gauges.

Moodlight:
The moodlight project teaches students different electrical systems. Students will learn how to solder a circuit together. They will also learn how to use and incorporate CAD/CAM into their project by using the laser cutter.

Year 9:

Year 9 focuses on understanding how to shape and finish plastic and metal. Students will learn the differences between Thermoforming and Thermosetting plastics and the difference between Ferrous and Non-Ferrous metals.

Projects: Mobile phone holder: Students design and make a mobile phone holder. This involves shaping and finishing thermoforming plastic and using new tools and equipment such as wet and dry paper and the strip heaters. This also involves shaping and finishing a Non ferrous metal and using new equipment such as hacksaws and box folder.