Design and Technology Resistant Materials

Design and Technology is taught in two specialist workshops. All pupils study DT at Key Stage 3. Most work is project based and involves designing, making and evaluating. Students work in wood, metals and plastics as well as electronics, mechanisms graphics and computer aided design.

DT is optional at GCSE. The exam board is AQA Design and Technology Resistant Materials Technology 3545. This is a natural continuation of work studied at Key Stage 3 and results in a major piece of coursework worth 60% of the course. The 2 hour exam paper is 40%.

The College course is Edexcel Design and Technology Product Design 9180. This takes a more in depth look at such technological issues such as hand and commercial production, working properties and functions of materials, eco-design, smart materials, anthropometrics, ergonomic, schools of design, value issues, advertising and marketing of products and product life cycle. Two coursework projects are to be completed. Worth 50% in total.

“Design and Technology is about making things that people want and that work well. Creating these things is hugely exciting: it is an inventive, fun activity.”
James Dyson, Chairman, Dyson Ltd.

“Intelligence made visible.”
F. Pick, Architect.

"...beginning in small ways and developing until they unite with higher interests and involve considerable intelligence, encourage individuality and last through life as a part of that true education which is deepening and enriching human life everywhere.”
Arthur Rowntree, Headmaster,  1915 talking of practical subjects and after school activities.

An example of A2 coursework

Design and Technology is a multifaceted subject and covers a wide, if not inexhaustible, variety of disciplines. It is an exciting field, which has a great deal to offer students as both manufacturers and consumers.

The many changes in the Design and Technology curriculum must be closely followed and thoughtfully acted upon. A successful department must be prepared to take the best from the past and move forward with an open and enquiring mind. Excellent making skills should be combined with an in-depth understanding of technological issues.

Design and Technology is enthusiastically promoted in School through displays of students’ work. Excellence and progression must be actively encouraged through problem solving activities which should be enjoyed and excite the imagination. The department is actively encouraging coursework which develops social responsibilities in the local communities through a client based approach.

"Technology education is as much to do with developing social responsibility as with making products which function efficiently.”   Policy statement of Technology and Enterprise Education in Russia.

Link to a D&T blogg site designed and maintained by one of the DT staff: Click the link to browse to the site:    GCSE Blog site