Welcome to the world of Design, Technology, Food and Nutrition. In our department we aim to provide students with the opportunity to explore, design, make, and evaluate a wide variety of products and solutions that impact the world around us. From inspiring product design to food and nutrition, Design & Technology empowers students to use their creativity, critical thinking and practical skills in innovative ways.

The Design & Technology curriculum is carefully sequenced over KS3 and KS4 to develop the knowledge needed to prepare students for GCSE and beyond. Students are routinely provided with opportunities to revisit key concepts to ensure deep and meaningful learning takes place throughout their Design & Technology journey. 

The principles and skills developed in Design & Technology are crucial to ensure students become resilient problem-solvers who can work independently to produce high-quality outcomes. Whether working with mixed materials, electronics, using CAD/CAM or food, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the design and making process, developing not only practical skills but also their organisational skills, confidence and independence.

Shaped by the National Curriculum, and at the heart of the Design & Technology curriculum, are four core principles that guide student learning and development. These core principles form the spine of all units from KS3 to the end of KS4. The units of work are specifically designed to enthuse, and are inclusive of needs, ability and interest.  

1. Designing

Designing is the first step in any creation process. Students learn how to take a concept and turn it into a well-thought-out, functional design. This principle focuses on developing creative solutions to real-world problems and involves:

• Understanding user needs
• Researching materials and products
• Creating initial concepts and refining them
• Designing with consideration for both aesthetics and function

2. Making

The making process brings designs to life. Students will learn to use a wide range of tools, materials and techniques to create functional and effective products. This part of the curriculum focusses on:

• Hands-on use of materials and technology
• Developing dexterity and craftsmanship through building and construction
• Working with both traditional and modern methods, including CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)
• Applying skills in cooking, electronics, and product assembly

3. Evaluating

Evaluation is a critical skill in the design process. Students learn to reflect on their work and the work of others to assess its effectiveness, sustainability, and impact. This principle involves:

• Testing and analysing the functionality and performance of products
• Receiving, and acting upon, feedback
• Reviewing design choices and making improvements
• Considering how products meet user needs and sustainability goals

4. Technical Knowledge

Technical knowledge allows students to understand how and why things work. In Design & Technology, technical knowledge is not only about how products are made, but also about understanding their properties and applications. Key areas include:

• Material properties: Understanding the differences between materials such as metals, polymers and timbers and how they affect design choices
• Food and nutrition: Learning about the science of food, including nutritional values, cooking methods, cultural diversity and dietary requirements
• Technology and engineering: Knowledge of mechanisms, electronics, and systems that drive modern product design, including microcontrollers
• Sustainability: Considering the environmental impact of materials and manufacturing processes

 

Secondary Concepts: Developing Practical Skills

Beyond the core principles, we emphasise the development of key personal and practical skills that students need to succeed in Design & Technology at both KS3 and KS4. These secondary concepts focus on empowering students to grow as independent, skilled, and resilient creators. We aim for these skills to shape the student and who they will become in the world.

1. Independence

Independence is a fundamental skill in Design & Technology. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their projects, working with increasing autonomy as they progress through the curriculum. The aim is to build their confidence in their ability to design, make, and evaluate and without constant guidance.

• Encouraging self-directed learning
• Problem-solving without always relying on teacher intervention
• Developing a personal approach to design and making

2. Safety

Safety is a key focus in all Design & Technology lessons. Students will be taught the necessary precautions when working with tools, equipment and materials, especially in practical sessions like food preparation, working with mixed materials or using machinery.

• Promoting the safe use of tools and equipment
• Ensuring hygiene and safety standards, particularly in food and nutrition
• Teaching risk assessment and problem-solving strategies for preventing accidents

3. Competence

Competence involves honing skills and techniques, from emerging skills to mastery skills, that will support students throughout their education and future careers. Competence is developed through consistent practice, reflection, and improvement.

• Mastery of technical skills and processes
• Developing the ability to work efficiently and confidently
• Building confidence through successful project completion and problem-solving

4. Accuracy

Design & Technology requires precision. Whether it's weighing, measuring, cutting, assembling or cooking, accuracy is essential for producing high-quality outcomes. This is a skill that students develop over time with practise and attention to detail.

• Accurate measurements and cutting/chopping
• Precision in assembling/cooking and finishing products
• Paying detailed attention to the steps in processes such as following recipes or model construction

5. Quality of Outcome

Finally, the focus on quality ensures that students produce work they can be proud of. This is not only about creating something functional but also something aesthetically pleasing and well-made. The quality of the outcome reflects the effort, skill, and consideration put into each project.

• Striving for excellence in design, construction and in successful food outcomes
• Ensuring products/dishes meet user needs and functional requirements
• Understanding that quality also involves sustainability, aesthetics, and usability