Design and Technology

As appropriate, the aims and objectives of the Design and Technology Department relate directly, to those of the School, and to the requirements of the National Curriculum.  The Design and Technology Department in this School offers, to all pupils, courses whereby they study resistant materials (wood), compliant materials (textiles) and control systems (electrical, mechanical).

Aims

Collectively, these courses work towards achieving the following aims:

1. To stimulate and/or maintain pupil interest, enjoyment, curiosity and concern about, technological aspects of their environment, both local and otherwise in Design and Technology.
2. To enable pupils to be familiar with a relevant body of knowledge, skills, principles and vocabulary, e.g. pupils should become competent and confident in:
   i. conceiving, designing, and producing a range of technological products 'of good quality', ii. evaluating and improving upon their own technological products and those designed by others. The pupil's criticism should be by means of reasoned arguments.
3. To enable pupils to perceive Design and Technology as:
   i. a major cultural feature;
   ii. part of a wider body of knowledge and skills, e.g. to be able to work both independently and co-operatively.
4. To employ teaching methods and resources that allow all pupils (irrespective of their gender, ethnic origin, academic ability, etc.) to have equal access to Design and Technology and to experience success and enjoyment in their work.
5. To develop an awareness in pupils of:
   i. the implications of Design and Technology (past and present) for the individual and the local, national and international communities. Pupils should understand the role of Design and Technology as a critical factor in human, social, economic, cultural and environmental well-being and development.
   ii. the significance of Design and Technology and to value it as an important, pleasurable and fundamental realm of human experience.
   iii. some of the effects, beneficial or detrimental, that technology has had or may have on human society and the environment. This should help develop an awareness of technical, aesthetic, moral, economic, social, cultural, and environmental considerations that can make conflicting demands on designers and manufacturers.
6. To support the implementation of  'Shared Values' and to enable pupils to develop a range of desirable personal qualities such as safety awareness, politeness, perseverance, concern for others, initiative and independence.