Design Technology

In the D.T. department we aim to introduce our students to the many different concepts associated with D.T.,  through the design phase, into construction and ending with evaluation of our work.  We pay attention to our weaknesses as well as our strengths to discover how to improve on our initial plans.

The children are encouraged to work independently using a variety of tools and equipment, from drawing boards to sewing machines.  They are introduced to many techniques which they will be able to use as they move on to their senior schools.  They also appreciate the input of their classmates when evaluating their projects.  

In Year 3 the children learn about two dimensional nets, accurate measuring of materials and joining methods.  They are also taught to use tools safely and correctly.  They learn about simple linkages and levers and how they can be used to control movement, as well as many other small projects.  

In Year 6, as the children progress up the school, they are made more aware of the importance of the design process.  They learn graphical techniques such as isometric projection and orthographic drawing.  They look at the construction of bridges, and design their own fairground ride.  They are taught more advanced systems when they design a pneumatically controlled tipper truck, as well as taking a look at recycling.  

In Years 7 and 8 the pupils look at more complex problems, such as designing working kites, and producing a controlled vehicle.  In systems we look at electrical components and their uses, and then put them into practice by designing and making a steady hand game.  In Year 8 pupils work in teams to design and make a load-bearing bridge using a limited amount of supplies. The bridges are then tested to destruction to see which one can hold the most weight.  

The projects detailed above are all taught with the children’s safety in mind and, as such, before any work with tools is undertaken,  a full briefing and demonstration is carried out.

Wide range of Projects:

Big Projects