Our Design and Technology Curriculum

Design and technology is an inspiring, rigorous, knowledge and practical based subject. Using creativity and imagination, our 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 English (reading, spelling, writing subject specific comprehensions), mathematics (measurements, quantities, percentages, areas and volumes), science, engineering, computing and art. Pupils learn how to take risks, become resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design technology, they develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world. High quality and technology education makes an essential contribution to the creativity, culture wealth and wellbeing of the nation.

Key stage three units of work are sequenced to ensure pupils learn the foundations of the subject that they are expected to know and understand by the time they reach KS4. This prepares the pupils by giving them a foundation of knowledge to build and expand upon in Year 10 and 11 and KS5.

Projects and tasks are designed to allow all pupils to access the skills required via differentiated Pathways and challenges including resources and teacher guidance and support. Long and medium term plans are designed to ensure all areas of knowledge and skills are covered over the course of KS3 and KS4 allowing pupils to meet the high standards of the new Design Technology standards set by the national curriculum. Through the collaboration with neighbouring schools, we have had opportunities to share ideas and good practice with primary and secondary school links.

In Design and Technology, our Christian values are embraced through the teaching and learning of our curriculum which is integrated throughout the branches of our big ideas. Students ‘grow in stature’ as they discover, explore, experiment and question concepts and ideas within design contexts including materials, textiles and food technology. As part of our whole school vision, spirituality is developed through the wonder of ‘why’ and ‘what if’,  with our Christian values deep rooted at the heart of courage, love, forgiveness, peace and equality when analysing and debating the big questions in life.

Design and Technology Staffing

Subject Leader for Design and Technology

Mrs J Chan-Atkinson

Teachers of Technology

Mrs K McNally (KS3 DT KS4 Food)

Mrs A Jones (KS3 DT KS4 Textiles)