Design & Technology
Head of Department: Mr L. Northey
Design and Technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. It is taught using the purpose-built Design and Technology classrooms to enable students to experience Product Design, Resistant Materials and Food Technology. Students develop key skills and creativity through a range of focused practical tasks, working with a variety of materials, tools and equipment. Students’ knowledge is built upon year-on-year allowing students to cover topics in more depth.
Key Stage 3
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 distinct Design and Technology projects during KS3.
In year 7 students will explore graphical techniques used by designers, learning how to use CAD/CAM drawing programmes, and how to apply this knowledge to design and make a model structure. The second project will focus on electronic circuits, learning how to learning soldering techniques, and designing and testing systems and games using electronic components. A further project will look at paper properties and types of card mechanisms, designing a pop up card or booklet. The final project will centre around food and nutrition 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 mobile phone holder, mechanical toy, mood light, and a clock.
Key Stage 4
Students can choose to further develop their knowledge and experience in both established and contemporary technologies, materials and processes through the AQA course GCSE Product Design. Students will use their creativity and imagination through the iterative process to design and make prototypes that solve real and relevant 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 a series of ‘Focused Practical Tasks’ and a mini final project that will further develop their design and practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
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.
For a more detailed breakdown of topics covered in each term please see the relevant year group’s Curriculum Booklet in the Student area of our website.