Design

Design

Department vision

Design is fundamental to our way of life, through the products we consume, to the way in which we choose to live our daily lives; design affects us all.

It is important that young people understand the way in which technology informs design; how products are manufactured and how material, social and moral considerations may influence future generations. 

Young people must therefore be provided opportunity and insight into the world of design.  They must be encouraged to respond to contexts and problems, but more importantly develop the ability to persevere and undertake challenges in unfamiliar contexts.

    

Lower school curriculum

Pupils are taught a wide range of skills, knowledge and understanding, along with the processes needed for manufacture.  All projects have a strong design element which pupils research, develop and produce independently. Presentation skills, both in 2D and 3D are introduced, including the use of computers (CAD/CAM) for both design and manufacture.

 

gcse Design &TECHNOLOGY

The GCSE course involves both practical and design work supported by material, manufacture, critical and historical theory. Design Technology is primarily concerned with solving problems and designing to meet a ‘need’ in a functional and aesthetic manner. Pupils of D&T work regularly in the studios and workshops, developing their ideas through a variety of media and processes. The overall assessment of the course is undertaken through coursework and a final written exam.

A Level Product Design

Design & Technology Product Design involves both practical and design work supported by material, manufacture, critical and historical theory. Product Design is primarily concerned with solving problems and designing to meet a need in a functional and aesthetic manner. Students of Product Design work regularly in the studios and workshops, developing their personal ideas through a variety of media and processes. Students also look at related work by artists, designers, architects and craftspeople, both contemporary and historical from both European and non-European cultures.  The overall assessment of the course includes a portfolio and product (50%) and final written design exam (50%).

 

Facilities

The Department is based around two multi-purpose workshops, where hand and machine tools are used in the production of student work. The Department is also equipped with a CAD/CAM computer room, Laser Cutter, CNC flat bed router, 3D Printers and vinyl cutters, which are all widely used throughout the year groups.

Although, new technology reflects the modern interpretation of the subject, pupils have access to heat and metal works such as welding and brazing facilities to support traditional methods of working.

 

Co- curricular

Trips and experiences outside of classroom learning are hugely beneficial.  Pupils have enjoyed excursions to site-specific locations, museums and initiatives such as Teen Tech.  The Department also offers additional workshops at lunchtime and shared initiatives such as ‘Race for the line’.

Sixth form students are offered the chance to attend design conferences such as ‘Product Design in Action’ which provides them with an insight from industry leaders at the cutting edge of design.

 

Special Achievements

Arkwright Award

The Arkwright Scholarships Trust is an independent charity that identifies, inspires and nurtures future leaders in engineering and technical design. Pupils who demonstrate the necessary skills are entered annually for this prestigious award.

Biographies

Mr Simon Taylor, MA, Head of Design 

Mr Ben Wilkinson, BA, Teacher of Design, Assistant Head of Second Year, Head of Outdoor Learning, Duke of Edinburgh Award (Gold and Silver) & Co-ordinator 

Mr Mike Daniels, BA, Teacher of Design

Back to Academic Departments