Design and Technology

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.

KS3

Implementation

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 create an amplifier which incorporates electronic components, which they will solder.

KS4

Implementation

Design Technology (Yr 10 only)

Exam Board: AQA GCSE

This is a two year course, requiring pupils to learn about product design. Opportunities to learn about how products are made, with an emphasis on sustainability is an integral part of the course.There is a terminal exam, worth 50% of the marks awarded. The course also has a non-exam based assessment, which includes a design and make task. Pupils must produce a working prototype and a design portfolio.

Construction (Yr 11 only)

Exam Board: Edexcel - Qualification: Level 1 Certificate

This construction qualification will help pupils understand aspects of the construction industry and the skills required to work successfully in the industry. Pupils will find out about career opportunities in Construction as well as developing their own skills.