The Team and Facilities

The Design & Technology department provides students with exciting opportunities to develop creativity, problem-solving skills, practical expertise and an understanding of how design and technology shape the world around us. Through a broad and engaging curriculum, students learn to design, make, evaluate and refine products while developing valuable life skills that prepare them for further education and future careers.

Our specialist facilities include modern workshops, CAD/CAM equipment, laser cutters, 3D printing technology and fully equipped food preparation rooms, enabling students to experience a wide range of design and manufacturing processes. The department is supported by a team of experienced specialist teachers and technicians who are committed to helping every student achieve their potential.

Key Stage 3

At Key Stage 3, students follow a carousel programme that provides a broad foundation across the disciplines within Design & Technology. Throughout Years 7, 8 and 9, students complete three Product Design projects and one Food & Nutrition project each year.

The Product Design projects allow students to develop practical skills in designing, modelling and manufacturing products using a range of materials, tools and technologies. Students are encouraged to think creatively, solve real-world problems and develop confidence in the design process.

In Food & Nutrition, students develop essential cooking skills alongside an understanding of healthy eating, nutrition, food provenance and food safety. Practical lessons enable students to prepare a variety of dishes while building independence and confidence in the kitchen.

Through this varied curriculum, students gain the knowledge, skills and resilience required for progression into Key Stage 4 studies.

Key Stage 4

At Key Stage 4, students can choose to study either GCSE Design & Technology or GCSE Food Preparation & Nutrition.

GCSE Design & Technology

This course encourages students to be innovative and creative designers while developing their practical manufacturing skills. Students explore a range of materials, modern and emerging technologies, sustainability, manufacturing processes and product design principles.

The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, culminating in a substantial design-and-make project that allows students to demonstrate their creativity, technical understanding and problem-solving abilities.

GCSE Food Preparation & Nutrition

This engaging and practical qualification develops students' understanding of nutrition, food science, food safety and food provenance. Students refine their practical cookery skills through a range of challenging food preparation tasks and investigations.

The course equips students with valuable life skills while also providing a strong foundation for further study and careers within the food, hospitality and nutrition industries.

Key Stage 5

Students can continue their studies through a range of qualifications that provide excellent preparation for higher education, apprenticeships and future careers.

GCE Product Design

The GCE Product Design course enables students to develop advanced design, problem-solving and manufacturing skills through a combination of theoretical study and practical application. Students explore the relationship between design, innovation, materials, engineering, sustainability and commercial production while developing their ability to create products that meet real-world needs.

A significant element of the course is the independent design and manufacture project, allowing students to demonstrate creativity, technical knowledge and project management skills. The qualification provides an excellent foundation for university courses and careers in product design, engineering, architecture and related creative industries.

BTEC Health & Social Care

The BTEC National Extended Certificate in Health & Social Care provides students with a broad understanding of the health, social care and early years sectors. Through a combination of coursework and external assessment, students investigate topics such as human lifespan development, meeting individual care needs, and working in health and social care services.

This qualification develops valuable transferable skills including communication, research, teamwork and professional practice. It is particularly suited to students considering careers in nursing, midwifery, social work, teaching, childcare, psychology, healthcare professions and other people-focused industries, while also supporting progression to higher education and employment.

Please see links below for the Technology Curriculum Intent and an easy read curriculum maps, which explains what your child is learning and when throughout the year.