Introduction

Design Technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Using creativity and imagination, students design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. They acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. Students learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens.

Years 7 to 9

At KS3 students develop a range of basic design skills ranging from 2-D and 3-D sketching of design ideas, to formal technical drawing and computer aided design.  They work with a variety of different materials and learn how to use an extensive range of tools, equipment and machinery to manufacture varied and functional products that solve real-life problems.  Throughout the three years, students learn about a wide variety of important theoretical areas of the subject including the need to use sustainable forms of energy, recycling, smart materials and how manufacturing takes place in the wider world.  They finally test and evaluate their finished prototypes and consider ways in which their work may be improved with a view to continually evaluating and improving their DT capability.

GCSE

At KS4 students develop their designing and manufacturing skills, while acquiring further technical knowledge and learn to evaluate in more detail, considering, for example, how a prototype might be developed for wider-scale production.  In addition to the challenge of building upon previously taught skills and knowledge, the real difference between this and KS3 is the necessity to apply what they have learnt to real and relevant problem-based scenarios, where the outcome of one student will be completely different from that of another.  As such, DT at GCSE, is a popular, exciting and rewarding option.

A Level

Building further upon the knowledge and skills acquired during KS4, students undertake increasingly complex, challenging, large and impressive projects.  It is quite common for an A Level design folder, at the RGS, to look every bit as impressive as those of a professional engineer or designer.  Many of our students go on to study engineering, architecture and product design at university and many have commented on how useful DT has been to them during their courses.  A Level DT is an excellent third A Level that compliments the theoretical materials taught in other STEM subjects such as Mathematics, Computing and Physics, while utilizing elements of Art to bring a unique aesthetic quality to the work produced.