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Design Technology

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This is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Using creativity and imagination, students design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts. Through evaluation of famous designers, students develop their ‘inner’ 3D ability and critical understanding of the world around us. They investigate how products are designed, developed and manufactured for an ever changing consumer market, with increasing emphasis on environmental issues.

Key Stage 3

At Key Stage 3, Hertswood students study Product Design through a range of projects using a variety of materials, tools and construction methods relevant to industry. They learn about Health and Safety, material properties,  manufacturing processes, environmental issues and current industrial and IT technology, such as CAD CAM. This knowledge gives them life skills and a foundational understanding of the world of industry, that can be transferred to further education, from apprenticeships to university degrees.

Key Stage 4

At Key Stage 4, students develop and enhance their foundational skills and knowledge to form a deeper understanding of the design and manufacturing process. Through challenging projects and teamwork, they become critical independent thinkers who are capable of researching, analysing, evaluating, communicating and solving problems to produce a viable solution to a real world issue.

At Hertswood we give students the opportunity to specialise in Textiles or Resistant Materials although these are not mutually exclusive. We have a well resourced department including 3D Printers, laser cutter and industrial machinery. Our staff are all specialists in their chosen field with industry experience which enables them to give appropriate career advice and guidance.

Key Stage 5

Year 12 and Year 13 can follow an AS course in Theatre Studies. Students are able to build on previous skills and success at KS4 and explore in more depth the history of theatre and different approaches to texts, rehearsal and directing.

Year

Autumn

Spring

Summer

Year 7

Product: Money Box 

Health and Safety in the workshop

Materials, Tools and Processes

Product: Pewter Key Fob

CAD CAM, Research, Manufacturing processes, Target Markets

Product: Pencil Case

Recycling materials, Tools and processes, Manufacturing techniques

Year 8

Product: Lamp

Smart materials, Introducing to circuits, Work of others, CAD CAM, Material finishes, Mechanisms

Product: Clock

Work of others, Material choices, Quality Control. Material choices

Modelling techniques

Polymorph

Prototypes

Modelling foam

Year 9

Mini NEA

Teenage Lifestyle or Educational Toy

Mini NEA

Teenage Lifestyle or Educational Toy

Moodlight or Bum/Waist Bag

Year 10 GCSE

Mini NEA

Preparing for Emergency

Outdoor Living

Keeping Fit and Active

Mini NEA

Preparing for Emergency

Outdoor Living

Keeping Fit and Active

NEA

Year 11 GCSE

AQA NEA

Exam preparation

  

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Independent Learning Resources

  • The Knowledge
  • Quizlet
  • Seneca Learning
  • Dynamic Learning
  • CGP Revision and Workbook

Useful Links