Key Stage 3
Throughout KS3, students will complete 3-4 'design and make' projects within the subject areas per academic year. The design cycle will include opportunities to research new innovative technologies, use different tools and machinery, use Computer Aided Design /Computer Aided Manufacture, develop design ideas, design/ make products and test & evaluate against set criteria.
Subject areas covered:
- Graphics
- Resistant Materials
- Textiles
Year 7 projects: Personal organiser; festival merchandise; reclaimed storage box; book ends
Year 8 projects: Night light; merchandise for a new band; upcycled pallet clock; coat hook for a zoo
Year 9 taster project: Desk lamp
How to support your child?
At KS3 it is essential that students complete all Homework tasks set on Google Classroom on time to prepare for the learning of the next lesson. Additionally, parents need to be supportive with the providing of materials if needed. It is encouraged that parents support their children by allowing them to practice practical skills gained at home to build their confidence in the subject.
Key Stage 4
Edexcel GCSE 9-1 Design and Technology
Design and Technology GCSE is an exciting subject which enables students to express their creativity through design. Students will submit a number of design and make projects in Year 9 in order to build the necessary experience before working on their controlled assessment tasks (coursework) in Year 10 and Year 11. It will develop and improve your design and practical skills. It can lead to further studies in design and technology or directly into a job or apprenticeship. Students will be studying a core topic that will include the fundamentals of design, materials and their properties, drawing and presentation techniques, new technologies, design trends and movements, Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM), accurate use of workshop tools, equipment and specialist machinery.
There is also the option of six specialist subjects where students can explore in detail:
- Metals
- Papers and Boards
- Polymers
- Systems
- Textiles
- Timbers
How to support your child?
The design technology department provide the students with clear deadlines as it is a coursework based subject. If you feel your child is struggling to meet a deadline on time please contact your child’s classroom teacher or Head of Department so as a department we can put necessary interventions in place to support your child. All deadlines should be met before or on the given date. Details of coursework deadlines are on Google Classroom. Revision materials for exams are distributed by the
teacher. It may be required that you provide your child with materials to succeed in KS4 and 5. There is funding for pupil premium students available on request.
Key Stage 5
AQA Product Design
Product Design at A-level is a challenging subject which will stretch students to think creatively and refine their practical skills. The course ask pupils to create innovative solutions to design problems, covering skills such as 3D Modelling, CAD/ CAM, drawing, in depth research and using work shop tools to a high level. Product Design is spilt into four Units, two of which are to produce a design-and-make portfolio and the other two written exams. Students will develop knowledge of materials and their
properties, and understand how they can be used when manufacturing products. This subject is an excellent choice for students wishing to go into industry or onto university as it is versatile covering a variety of different topics.
Miss J Prior
Head of Art & Technology Faculty
jprior@kgaprospect.uk
Mr K McDonald
Technology Teacher
kmcdonald@kgaprospect.uk
Miss M Williams
Technology/Construction Teacher
mwilliams@kgaprospect.uk