All year 7 and 8 students at St Aloysius’ College study Design and Technology. The two year KS3 course will allow students to learn a wide range of practical skills, as well as opportunities to discuss and consider other aspects of design such as
environmental factors, healthy living and the work of famous designers. Students undertake a number of bespoke Design and Technology projects during KS3.

In year 7 students will explore graphical techniques used by designers, learning how to use CAD software, and how to apply this knowledge to design and make a model both physically in the workshop but also using our CAM technology. The second project will focus on electronic circuits, learning how to solder, and designing and testing systems and games using electronic components. They will also have an opportunity to study food and nutrition in the summer term, with students learning principles of healthy eating, food hygiene and safety, and kitchen skills.

Year 8 students will build upon their established Design and Technology knowledge and skills to undertake more complex projects, designing and producing; a clock, a mobile phone holder, and then a plane which can fly round the room. They will also get another opportunity in the summer term to study food technology.

Currently, we are following a two-year Key Stage 3 but from September 2022 we will be implementing a three-year Key Stage 3.

Students at St Aloysius go on to study Product Design through the AQA exam board for their GCSE. Students will use their creativity and imagination through the iterative design process and make working prototypes that solve real world problems.

In year 9, students will focus on material key skills, working with a range of tools and machines, developing their design skills and theoretical knowledge. In year 10, students will complete the full curriculum in terms of theory knowledge but also develop the iterative design process by completing two coursework based projects where they are able to use all the machines available to them at St Aloysius.

We are fortunate enough to have a state of the art laser cutter, 3D routers, 3D printer, lathes, skill saws, as well as all the traditional tools you would expect to find in a decent workshop.

Year 11, students will complete a non-exam assessment coursework and a two hour written examination. Students will select a challenge from a choice of set contextual challenges given by the exam board. For the coursework element
students will have to consider all aspects of the design and make processes to produce a final product based on reasoned design decisions, with consistent evidence of project evaluation, evolution and testing.

For a more detailed explanation of the GCSE course and assessment format please click here.