Key Stage Three

In Y7  – Y9, students explore the working properties of a range of materials through theory and practical application. These materials include timbers, papers and boards, electronics, metals and polymers. As the students progress through Key Stage Three, they build on prior learning to extend their knowledge of more complex construction techniques, CAD, CAM and the safe handling of workshop tools.

The students enjoy making the following projects:

Y7 - A sustainable themed pop-up book, an animal laser cut torch and wooden bug hotel.

Y8 – A colour changing LED acrylic lamp, a Memphis style wooden clock and a card African mask with levers/linkages moving elements.

Y9 – A frame constructed from multiple joints, a wooden phone stand, a speaker and they design and build using CAD a mould to cast keyrings from pewter and HDPE plastic.

Key Stage Four

During Key Stage Four, students will develop greater independence and the skills they require to design, develop, prototype, construct, test and evaluate their own products. This will help them to fully prepare for the successful completion of their NEA exam project in Year 11 and support their understanding of Design and Technology theory.

We follow the EDUQAS specification for GCSE, which consists of:

Component 1: Design and Technology in the 21st Century Written examination: 2 hours 50% of qualification

Component 2: Design and make task non-exam assessment: approximately 35 hours 50% of qualification

The NEA component 2 project is marked by the teacher and moderated by the EDUQAS moderator.

Y10 – students will complete a mini project to design and prototype a chair, develop a product for the Design Museum’s national competition Design Ventura, design and make a portable or packable toy or game. They then begin their NEA exam project from June onwards.

Y11 – students continue working on their NEA exam projects until the end of February. They then focus on recall, learning and revision to prepare them for their theory written paper exam.