Design Technology

Head of Design Technology Mr H Ridley

CURRICULUM VISION

Our GCSE Design and Technology curriculum vision is to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. We believe that by studying Design and Technology, students can develop their creativity, problem-solving abilities, and technical knowledge, enabling them to create innovative solutions to real-world problems. Our curriculum is designed to be both challenging and engaging, offering a range of hands-on experiences that allow students to put their learning into practice. We also place a strong emphasis on the development of transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and project management, as these are essential for success in any career. We believe that Design and Technology is an important subject that allows students to explore their interests, develop their passions, and prepare for a successful future. Our curriculum is designed to support students as they progress from GCSE to further study or employment, equipping them with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the modern world.

In particular our students will:

develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world.
critique, evaluate and test their own and others' ideas and products.
be aware of their physical safety by understanding and adhering to rules on safe working practices
be expected to solve design problems by drawing on their understanding of manufacturing processes and the properties of materials.

What is Design and Technology?

GCSE Design and Technology is a practical subject that teaches students about the design process and how to use a variety of materials and technologies to create functional and aesthetically pleasing products.

Students learn about a range of topics, including design principles, materials and processes, computer-aided design (CAD), and the use of tools and equipment. They also have the opportunity to work on design and make projects, where they can apply their knowledge and skills to create a product of their own design.

The goal of GCSE Design and Technology is to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world. It helps students develop their creativity, problem-solving abilities, and technical knowledge, and can lead to a range of exciting career paths in fields such as engineering, product design, and fashion design

Why do we study Design and Technology?

There are many reasons why students might choose to study GCSE Design and Technology. Some of the benefits of studying this subject include:

Developing creativity and problem-solving skills: Design and Technology requires students to think creatively and come up with innovative solutions to real-world problems. This can help students develop their problem-solving skills and be more adaptable in their future studies and careers.

Learning about new technologies: GCSE Design and Technology keeps students up-to-date with the latest technologies and how they can be used in the real world. This can be particularly interesting for students who are interested in careers in engineering, product design, or other technical fields.

Practical, hands-on learning: Design and Technology is a very practical subject, with a focus on creating physical products or prototypes. This can be an engaging and rewarding way for students to learn, as they can see the results of their work firsthand.

Developing transferable skills: GCSE Design and Technology helps students develop important life skills such as communication, teamwork, and project management. These skills are highly valued by employers and can be applied to a wide range of careers, making Design and Technology an excellent choice for students who want to be successful in the future.

What do we study?

Overall, GCSE Design and Technology is a subject that can be both challenging and rewarding, providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

To view a full summary of our KS3 and KS4 Design and Technology curriculum please click here

To view information about A level Product Design at the Green School Sixth Form please click here

CURRICULUM IMPLEMENTATION

How do we study Design and Technology?

Classroom lectures: Students may have lectures or presentations in the classroom, where they can learn about key concepts and theories related to design and technology.

Practical workshops: Students have the opportunity to work on practical projects in the workshop, where they can apply their knowledge and skills to create physical products or prototypes.

Computer-aided design (CAD): Students use computer software to design and communicate their ideas, using tools such as 2D and 3D modeling, rendering, and prototyping.

Research and analysis: Students will be required to research and analyse existing products or technologies as part of their coursework. This may involve gathering and evaluating information from a variety of sources, such as books, articles, and online resources.

Presentation of Work

50% Exam (100 marks) 50% NEA (100 marks)

Home Learning

Homework and assignments: Students will have homework assignments and projects to complete outside of class, which may involve research, analysis, or design work.

Co - curricular activities

Design competitions: Students may have the opportunity to participate in design competitions, either as individuals or as part of a team. These competitions can be a great way for students to showcase their skills and creativity and to get feedback from industry professionals.

Field trips: Students may have the opportunity to go on field trips to visit factories, design studios, or other places of interest related to design and technology. These trips can provide valuable real-world experience and help students make connections in the industry.

Student clubs and organisations: Schools may offer clubs or organisations related to design and technology, where students can meet others with similar interests and work on projects together.

Overall, co-curricular activities can be a great way for students to complement their GCSE Design and Technology studies and explore their interests in more depth. They can also help students develop valuable skills and make connections that can be helpful in their future careers.

How parents/carers can support their children

There are a few ways that parents and carers can support their children who are studying GCSE food and nutrition:

Help your child to stay organized by creating a study schedule and setting aside dedicated study time each day.

Help your child to find relevant and engaging study materials, such as videos, practice quizzes, and interactive games.

Encourage your child to get hands-on experience with food by helping them to plan and prepare meals at home.

Encourage your child to seek out opportunities for practical experience, such as internships or volunteering at a restaurant or catering company.

Keep the lines of communication open and encourage your child to talk to you about their studies and any challenges they may be facing.

CURRICULUM IMPACT

Assessment

Exams: Students are required to sit exams as part of their GCSE Design and Technology course, the assessment also includes 50% NEA with both written and practical components.

Careers Leading on from Design and Technology

There are many careers that can lead from GCSE Design and Technology, as the subject provides a strong foundation in creativity, problem-solving, and technical skills. Some potential careers that students who have studied GCSE Design and Technology may be interested in include:

Engineering: Engineers use scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and test products, systems, and structures. GCSE Design and Technology can be a good preparation for a career in engineering, as it teaches students about materials, processes, and problem-solving.

Product design: Product designers create and develop new products, taking into account factors such as aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. GCSE Design and Technology can be a good preparation for this career, as it covers design principles and the use of materials and technologies.

Fashion design: Fashion designers create clothing and accessories, taking into account factors such as style, fit, and function. GCSE Design and Technology can be a good preparation for this career, as it covers textiles and the use of materials and technologies.

Architecture: Architects design buildings and other structures, taking into account factors such as aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. GCSE Design and Technology can be a good preparation for this career, as it covers design principles and the use of materials and technologies.

Industrial design: Industrial designers create products such as furniture, appliances, and vehicles, taking into account factors such as aesthetics, functionality, and ergonomics. GCSE Design and Technology can be a good preparation for this career, as it covers design principles and the use of materials and technologies.

These are just a few examples of the many careers that can lead from GCSE Design and Technology. The subject can be a good preparation for a wide range of technical and creative careers, as it helps students develop important skills such as creativity, problem-solving, and technical knowledge.

To view more information about our school Careers programme please click here.

The Green School for Boys