Departmental Staff
- Mrs. U Doherty
- Mrs. C Keyes
- Mr. M O'Hagan
- Mr. K Kelly
Department Overview
The Technology & Design department provides students with a dynamic and hands-on learning experience centered on the study of woods, metals, plastics, and modern manufacturing systems. Through a balance of practical workshop activities and theoretical knowledge, students develop an understanding of material properties, selection, and the processes used to transform them into functional and innovative products.
Pupils are introduced to a wide range of tools, machinery, and digital technologies, enabling them to design, model, and manufacture high-quality outcomes. Emphasis is placed on creativity, innovation and problem-solving, encouraging students to explore ideas from concept through to production. The department also focuses on systems and control, allowing students to work with electronic and mechanical components in preparation for KS4/5 study.
Key Stage 3 - Overview
Pupils learn about Health & Safety principles, generate innovative design responses to set problems, complete practical projects using workshop tools and machinery and are introduced to mechanical and electronic systems. Pupils also gain experience in Computer Aided Design packages, using Computer Aided Manufacture equipment to make their 2D designs into physical products.
Key Stage 4 - Overview
Skills developed:
This is first class preparation for students who wish to pursue a career in any Engineering discipline.
Pupils will:
- use imagination and develop skills of creativity and critical analysis through making links between existing solutions, technological knowledge and the principles of good design;
- communicate design ideas and decisions using a range of media and techniques;
- Use a broad range of materials, components and technologies, as well as practical skills, to develop and produce high quality, imaginative and functional prototypes;
- consider aesthetic, technical, economic, environmental, ethical and social dimensions when engaged in design and making;
- consider the costs in the making and marketing of products;
- apply health and safety procedures to ensure safe working practices;
- analyse and develop existing products and develop practical solutions to needs, wants and opportunities, recognising their impact on quality of life;
- develop decision-making skills through individual and collaborative working;
- apply appropriate technology and design terminology;
- understand that designing and making reflect and influence cultures and societies, and that products have an impact on lifestyle; and combine skills with knowledge and understanding in order to make quality products.
Post 16
A Level Technology & Design (Systems & Control)
This course builds on KS3 and GCSE Technology & Design, developing advanced skills in materials, processes and mechanical/pneumatic control systems. At AS, students enhance their technical knowledge and redesign an existing product, producing a portfolio and 3D model. At A2, they study mechanical and pneumatic systems in depth and design and manufacture a product to meet an identified need, supported by a detailed portfolio.
What the Course Encourages
Students learn to:
- Tackle challenging design tasks using reflective practice
- Develop creativity and innovation
- Overcome constraints to produce high-quality outcomes
- Understand design influences past and present
- Apply knowledge from other subjects
- Use production processes confidently in technological activities
Skills Developed
The course strengthens skills in:
- Designing and making
- Materials theory and practical application
- Electro-mechanical systems (A2)
- Problem-solving, ICT, communication, teamwork and independent learning
Career Opportunities
This qualification provides an excellent foundation for university courses in Mechanical, Electrical, Electronic, Aeronautical and Civil Engineering. It also supports progression into Technology & Design teaching through B.Sc. or B.Ed. pathways.
Course Summary
| Content | Assessment | Weighting |
| AS 1: Compulsory: Design and Materials Option: Systems and Control or Product Design |
2 (1 hour) components Externally Assessed |
50% of AS 20% of A level |
| AS 2: Coursework: Product Development | Internal assessment | 50% of AS 20% of A Level |
| A2 1: Systems and Control or Product Design | External written examination 2 hours | 30% of A level |
| A2 2: Coursework: Product–System Design and Manufacture |
Internal assessment | 30% of A level |
Beyond the Classroom
Pupils who study Technology and Design at A-Level go on to study a wide range of courses at university including Electrical/ Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, Architecture and Computing.
Many pupils have experienced success in extra-curricular events such as the ESports programme, in association with Digital Schoolhouse and Team R&D, in association with Sentinus. Additionally, KS4 & Post 16 students participate in educational visits to local Engineering companies on an annual basis.