Intent
Design Technology at Saxon Mount School is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Using creativity and imagination, pupils design and make products that solve real and relevant problems, within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. Design Technology provides our pupils with an exciting opportunity to express their practical abilities.
At KS4, Pupils will begin their GCSE in Design Technology. Pupils will look at the impact of new and emerging technologies in industry. Work is assessed through the development of the practical and theory project.
Pupils studying Construction will be completing their Open Awards certificate in Exploring Construction and Building Crafts. The pupils will build on their knowledge and practical skills from Year 1 of the course.
Year 7:
Students begin the year looking at PPE and how to stay safe in the DT workshop. They will then follow a design brief to make a wooden car. They will consider their target audience, they will learn about wheels and axles and how to use the correct tools and materials before designing and making their own car. The process ends with the students reviewing their product. They will build upon their skills throughout the year and demonstrate these skills through different projects in a workshop setting.
Year 8:
Pupils build on the skills in Year 7 to design and make products using a range of material using both hand and machine tools. They develop their ability to work with accuracy and improve the quality of finish. They deepen their knowledge of the design process as they research, design, make and evaluate their work. Projects will include a themed clock and ‘Tatty Divine’ style jewellery.
Year 9:
Pupils will continue to develop their design and making skills. They will follow a design brief and make a mould in which they will cast a pewter keyring. The next designing and making project will require pupils to use their skills to make an aluminum elephant ornament. They will scribe, cut, shape and form metal to produce their product.
Design Technology (Yr 10 only)
Construction (Yr 10 only)
Exam Board: Pearson BTEC Level 1 Introductory Certificate in Construction
Year 10 Students will begin a two year coursework based course with no terminal exam. The students will follow a unit based structure which could lead to further study in BTECS or apprenticeships post 16.
Amongst other things we will look at technical drawing, how to make and use carpentry joints and how they should price up repair jobs.
Construction (Year 11 only)
Exam board: Open awards certificate in construction and building crafts.
Headteacher Amanda Jagot
