Design Technology

I’ve always been intrigued at how design is able to improve people’s lives. What’s most exciting is passing that knowledge on to future generations. Who knows what designs and innovations they’ll come up with in the future?

Ms Ferrell (DT Subject Lead)

 

Design technology is the study of the design, development and application of computer and non-computer based technology.

Some of the most recognisable and loved applications in our lives owe their notoriety to their design. Think the iPod, Dyson vacuum cleaner, Beetle Car, the Hammersmith Academy building, all triumphs of design and practical creativity.

DT is not just limited to product design, it also has application in the built environment, construction and maintenance industries.

All modern designers have to consider sustainable issues when designing new products. A sign of the modern technological age in which we live is that human actions have had a negative impact on our environment, how do we put this right?

New products MUST provide solutions rather than add to the existing problems of extractions and use of natural resources, pollution from manufacturing and disposal of large amounts of waste products… this all begins in the DT classroom, the ability to think creatively and act because you know it is the right thing to do is imperative to the sustainability of our way of life for future generations.

Here at HA all three members member of the DT department are degree level architectural specialists. The DT workshop comes fully equipped workshop with unlimited opportunities for creativity. Together we have developed a creative and successful curriculum that has inspired pupils to succeed.

We as a department aim to give pupil opportunity both inside and outside of the school curriculum, this has included entering students into external competitions, or sending them on extra curricula opportunities for further develop both skill and interest in the subject. We have a keen interest in developing STEM education and are looking into a wealth of opportunity again both inside and outside the school curriculum to develop this.

 

DT

GCSE

Exam Board: AQA

Qualification: GCSE Design and Technology

Assessment breakdown:

  • Written Examination: 50%
  • Non Examined Assessment: 50%

 

Skills Gained

  • Acquire and use specialist computer software to model and make accurate, professional products.
  • Confidence in the workshop, using a range of specialist manual tools and powered equipment.
  • A technical understanding of both traditional and modern materials and how they are used in industry.
  • Design and make products that solve genuine, complex problems whilst considering the needs, wants and values of different groups of people.
  • Analyse and evaluate the aesthetic, economic, moral, social, and environmental impact of their own work and the designs of others.
  • Taking considered design risks to be more resourceful, innovative and independent

 

Supporting Trips

  • Design Museum
  • Institute of Engineering
  • Imperial College: Makerspace Studios
  • Engineering Industry Trip

 

Potential Careers and Courses

  • Architecture & Construction
  • Graphic Design
  • Product Design
  • Games & Software Design
  • Set Design
  • Engineering