DT Curriculum Intent
“Design and Technology is about making things that people want and that work well. Creating things is hugely exciting: it is an inventive, fun activity”- James Dyson
Design and Technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. We provide our students with a curriculum that focuses on solving real world problems and the design and creation of high-quality products.
All students will develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to demonstrate a repertoire of skills confidently, in order to:
- build and apply core knowledge
- develop imaginative, creative and technical skills
- promote curiosity and encourage practical problem solving
- develop skills in to design and make high-quality products for a wide range of users
- critique, evaluate and test ideas and products
- work collaboratively with others
- realise the impact of design activities on the environment
- recognise and use new technologies whenever possible
- work safely, demonstrating an understanding of health and safety principles
- draw upon disciplines such as mathematics, literacy, science, computing and art
- practically apply the principles of nutrition
In Design and Technology students will be confident to tackle challenging concepts, thinking innovatively and develop creative understanding. They will hold high academic expectations, enabling them to understand how Design and Technology impacts every aspect of our lives, making informed decisions about further learning opportunities and career pathways.
At key stage 3 we will fulfill the requirements of the National Curriculum for Design and Technology, by providing a broad and balanced curriculum. Students will progress in their knowledge and skills, to learn how to take risks, become resourceful and innovative, understanding the impact of rapidly changing technology within the world. They achieve this by learning the different aspects of the Iterative Design Process and experience the fundamentals in each product design lesson at KS3. Furthermore, students will learn a range of practical methods to plan and prepare a range of international dishes in food lessons, understanding the importance of where ingredients come from, cost and environmental impact of importing ingredients from around the world.
“To me, food is as much about the moment, the occasion, the location and the company, as it is about the taste”- Heston Blumenthal
At key stage 4 students can choose to continue their studies of the subject by specialising in either Engineering or Food Nutrition.
The Cambridge National qualification in Engineering provides an engaging, robust and broad-based introduction to engineering. Students will gain knowledge, understanding, and practical skills through a range of engineering activities. This also provides them a firm grounding enabling them to pursue opportunities at post 16 or a career in the engineering industry.
Students will either study GCSE AQA Food Preparation and Nutrition or WJEC level 1/2 Certificate in Hospitality and Catering. Equipping them theoretical knowledge, these courses allow many opportunities for students to develop practical and technical food preparation skills. These courses also provide a foundation for a range of food related post 16 courses or careers within food, hospitality and catering environments.
When students complete their KS4 experience in either the WJEC or CAM NAT qualification they will be prepared and ready, with the necessary learning tools, skills and experience, to then choose a Level 3 qualification in this subject area.
Design Technology links in the community.
There are several engineering, manufacturing and hospitality businesses in and around the Balderton area. As a department we aim to forge strong links with the community to ensure students understand the employment and training opportunities available on their doorstep. We have links with Nottingham Trent University Advanced Manufacturing Centre. The Engineering students in year 10 experience first-hand state of the art manufacturing processes which are world class leading in terms of innovation. We also have links with Grantham college where students can experience a range of trades including brink laying, plumbing, plastering and more.
The Technology curriculum facilitates and embraces the Suthers School TORCH characteristics.
Tenacity
Students will use their problem solving and acquired practical skills to design, make and evaluate a range of products from start to finish. Technology students will learn the importance of good planning and organisation skills to prepare materials and ingredients in a safe environment. Students will be able to communicate clearly their design ideas and manufacturing plans, developing key technology vocabulary.
Optimism
Technology students will appreciate the time and preparation required to make a product within a given timescale and how to problem solve any issues throughout the design and manufacturing process. Technology students will learn from their failures and develop a positive approach through trial and error to complete a product.
"Enjoy failure and learn from it. You can never learn from success." James Dyson
Respect
Technology students will learn to respect the importance of how design and food differ from different cultures around the world. Students will learn about environmental and sustainable design and the ethical issues and dilemmas that impact our daily lives. Students will be given the opportunity to discuss and respect each other’s opinions about topical design issues in the news from around the world.
Curiosity
Student will be given the opportunity to experience and learn about the latest innovations in Technology including CAD/ CAM, manufacturing methods and engineering principles. The Technology curriculum will also embrace the technology, innovations and training within the local community. Extra-curricular trips to local businesses, colleges and museums will enable students to be given a well informed and balanced view about the endless possibilities that are available if they are to consider a career in the technology or hospitality industry, not only for today but for the future, and how this might change in their lifetime. The curriculum will also make students aware of the heritage of Newark and Balderton, including opportunities to learn about RAF Balderton and the testing of Frank Whittles' Jet Engine- all tested on the Suthers School site.
Hardworking
The Technology curriculum will enable teachers, student, parents and carers to reward and celebrate hard work. Students will learn new skills which they have not experienced before at KS2. They will learn the importance of taking pride in their work and the rewards that hard work pays to plan, design, make and evaluate a successful product, or body of work from start to finish. We endeavor for Suthers’ students to take home a product that they have designed and manufactured across the different areas of design and Technology areas. We aspire for students to be proud of their accomplishments in Technology and to share their successes with their parents or carers at home.
Learning Journey documents.
Please click on the links below to see the overviews of the technology curriculum at KS3 & 4:
