Design Technology provides a creative, practical and technological way of thinking, designing and most of all the manufacturing of quality products.

Design Technology provides the opportunity for students to combine practical skills and problem solving skills with intellectual thinking skills to gain an understanding of aesthetics, social and environmental issues, function and industrial practices.

Design Technology provides a high quality educational experience for all learners of all learners of today so they can help in developing tomorrow.

I teach Design & Technology because I want students to understand and have knowledge of technological changes and the impact on products and the future. I belief students should be inspired by new and ever-changing designs and technology that is around them. I belief students should have the fundamental skills they need to gain a career in the design/engineering industry if they so wish too. It is our aim to encourage the understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of all aspects of Design Technology across the KS3 and KS4 National Curriculum.

As a Design Technology department we run a three year course for KS4 qualifications. The course currently being delivered is OCR Cambridge Nationals Engineering which is on the performance criteria and equivalent to a full GCSE. Engineering Design is graded on a Pass, Merit or Distinction level. It comprises of one controlled assessment unit and exam for the award course or three controlled assessment units and exam for the certificate. The exam can be taken and re-sit once after enabling the students the best possible chance of achieving their full potential.

Engineering Design units focus on Unit R105: Design briefs, design specifications and user requirements, Unit R106: Product analysis and research, Unit R107: Developing and presenting engineering designs and Unit R108: 3D design realisation.

OCR Cambridge Nationals Engineering provide learners with the underpinning skills and knowledge that will enable them to choose the most appropriate progression routes for their particular needs (further study, Further Education (FE) or employment). Progression from OCR Level 1/ Level 2 Cambridge National Award/Certificate/in Engineering to Cambridge Technicals in Engineering at Level 2 and Level 3 or Apprenticeships.

The school is committed to high standards of health, safety and welfare. It is the school policy to improve them and create a safe environment for all our staff and pupils.

• We aim to set standards that comply with all relevant statutory requirements so that the health and safety of staff, students, visitors and the general public are not adversely affected by the activities of the school.
• To create a safe and settled environment for design technology to flourish. Where everyone shares a clear view of values.
• To provide a broad, balanced and progressive design technology programme for all pupils, and all abilities.
• To encourage positive appropriate behaviour. Respect for themselves and others and to recognise self-worth and ability.
• To support and consider the different sensory difficulties that our students may have and support their learning with added equipment.