Design & Technology

What topics will my child study in year 7 and 8?

In year 7 and 8 students will be introduced to a range of key processes and new technologies in design. Our projects across KS3 have been designed to ensure our students have the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills and be equipped with the fundamental basic contextual knowledge to positively meet the challenges and demands of the AQA GCSE (9-1) Design Technology at KS4.

Projects at KS3 include:

• Making a Fabric Night Light using various fabrics and textile techniques such as sublimation and applique.
• A maze game structured by wood joints using workshop tools and machinery.
• An anglepoise lamp powered by USB which incorporates basic electronics.
• A scaled model structure inspired by Bauhaus.

What topics will my child study in year 9, 10 and 11?

At KS4 from year 9, students will follow projects that embrace the in-depth content of the AQA GCSE (9-1) Design Technology and quality of making demands to complete the NEA worth 50% which is undertaken during year 11.

Projects in Year 9 include:

• A mechanical moving device using corrugated card
• A Clock inspired by Memphis
• A storage box for a given client

Projects in Year 10 include:

• An Air freshener skills based project focusing on CAD & CAM
• Completing a portfolio with a model which answers an NEA style contextual challenge.

In Year 11 students will focus on completing their Unit 2: NEA (Non Exam Assessment): worth 50% of the qualification, whilst also engaging in revision sessions and exam skills in preparation for (June) Unit 1: Written Examination: worth 50% of the qualification.

Do you have a reading list for this subject?

CGP: GCSE Design and Technology Product Design AQA Revision Guide by Richard Parsons

• Revise AQA GCSE (9-1) DT Revision Guide (Pearson) by Mark Wellington
• Design of the 20th Century by Charlotte & Peter Fiell

How can I help my child to excel in this subject?

In addition to discussing learning with your child and monitoring their homework, ensuring your child watches programmes linked to design and technology such as Grand Designs, The Great Interior Design Challenge, The Genius of Design or keeping abreast with the latest technology and trends by reading magazines such as Stuff or T3 will provide them with the broader knowledge they need to access the curriculum. Taking your child to interesting exhibitions and museums on art and design and design technology will inspire them and their own creativity. We recommend Free-Range Exhibition, New Designers, V&A, The London Design Fair, Design Museum and Tate Modern

Are there any online resources?

www.technologystudent.com/

www.design-technology.info/home.htm

www.dtonline.org

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/examspecs/zby2bdm

https://www.vam.ac.uk

Do you offer any interventions or clubs my child can attend?

Year 11 Interventions where possible are provided to support them towards compilation of their NEA.

Lunchtime skill based sessions once a week can help students learn some making skills.

Are there any important dates for me to be aware of in your subject?

NEA Contextual Challenge Release Date 1st June 2024.

Deadline for NEA for year 11 is March 2024.

How will my child be assessed at the end of the course?

Unit 1: Written Examination: 2 hours: 50% of the qualification.

Unit 2: NEA (Non Exam Assessment): 50% of the qualification.