Design, Technology & Engineering

KS3 – Key Stage 3 Design and Technology 


Key Stage 3 Design and Technology is primarily delivered through project-based learning, supplemented by occasional ‘one-off challenges’. Each project follows the design process, though the focus may vary. Students engage in various aspects of the design process, including context investigation, product analysis, idea generation, design development, manufacturing, testing, and evaluation. Design software such as Techsoft 2D Design, Rhinoceros 3D CAD, and Adobe Illustrator is used across all projects. Practical skills range from the use of hand tools and machines to modern technology like laser cutters and 3D printers. An emphasis is placed on user-centred design and commercial practices. Current projects in the lower school include designing and creating the following: 

YEAR 7	YEAR 8	YEAR 9
Airline activity pack	Smart phone holder	Earphone holder
Sushi board	USB fan	Sustainable container
EDGE museum project	Point of sale display stand	Kinder Egg robots

 

KS4 – Key Stage 4 (OCR Product Design Course) 

At Key Stage 4, students follow the OCR Product Design course and prepare for their GCSEs through project work integrated with theory in Year 10. The project work involves designing for clients, analysing existing product brands, conducting context investigations, iterative designing, manufacturing, and evaluation. Pupils also develop a strong understanding of sustainability, inclusive design, and commercial practice, equipping them for ethical design and careers in the design industry. They work with a range of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, fabrics, and smart materials. GCSE units consist of: 

• 50%: Non-examined assessment (Iterative Design Project) 

• 50%: Principles of Design and Technology exam 

 

KS5 – Key Stage 5 (OCR Product Design A Level) 

In Key Stage 5, students continue with the OCR Product Design course and are prepared for A Level units through project work with integrated theory in Year 12. Projects have included the ‘Outdoor Adventure Centre’ project, where students explore contexts within the school’s Outdoor Adventure Centre, perform in-depth product analysis, engage in iterative design, and present a CAD-based final design concept in a ‘Dragons Den’ style pitch. Another project focuses on wood laminating, where students explore the work of existing designers, timber materials, commercial processes, and then design and manufacture a laminated wood product. A third project involves designing and creating a ‘healthy snack on the go’ product for teenagers, focusing on polymer processes, graphic design, 3D CAD, and 3D printing. A Level units consist of: 

• 50%: Non-examined assessment (Iterative Design Project)
• 50%: Two exam papers: Problem Solving in Product Design and Principles of Product Design 

Facilities 

The department is equipped with two multipurpose workshops and a CAD/CAM studio. Facilities include a range of machines, such as vacuum formers, plastic ovens, pillar drills, sanding machines, lathes, Hegner saws, and well-stocked tool cupboards. The CAD/CAM equipment includes a laser cutter, CNC flatbed router, 3D printers, dye sublimation equipment, and vinyl cutters, all of which are extensively used across year groups. 

Clubs, Trips, and Competitions 

The department offers various extracurricular activities, including the Da Vinci Society, Design Innovation, CAD Club, and additional practical sessions for GCSE and A Level students. Students also participate in competitions like the Starpack Awards, ICE Cityzen, and the Arkwright Scholarship to enrich their learning experience. Recent trips have included architecture tours, lectures in London, Brunel University workshops, and an ‘Inventor Club’ visit and workshop run by a former Dyson engineer. 

Staff Biographies 

• Mrs Claire Wilkinson, BA – Head of Design, Technology and Engineering 

• Mr Ben Wilkinson, BA – Teacher of Design and Technology, Assistant Head of Second Year 

• Mr Mike Daniels, BA – Teacher of Design and Technology, Assistant Head of Third Year 

• Mrs Catherine Frith – Design and Technology Technician 

 

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