Design & Technology

Subject intent

Studying Design and Technology will help students to be leaders in their chosen field because it equips them with critical thinking, creativity, and technical skills essential for driving innovation and progress.

Subject links to HSAEL values

It takes students out of their comfort zone and show growth by engaging them in complex, real-world projects that require innovative problem-solving and adaptability, fostering personal growth and resilience.

It helps students tackle social injustice and demonstrate responsibility by encouraging the design of inclusive and sustainable solutions, instilling a sense of responsibility and ethical awareness.

It helps promote ambition by setting high standards for creativity and technical proficiency, inspiring students to strive for excellence and pursue their goals with determination.

It celebrates diversity compassion by integrating various cultural perspectives into the design process, fostering compassion, empathy, and a deeper understanding of global contexts.

It helps students develop independence excellence by emphasizing project-based learning, which cultivates self-reliance, critical thinking, and the ability to manage time and resources effectively.

This subject is particularly important at HSAEL because it addresses high deprivation, high levels of EAL, and a lack of cultural capital, providing students with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to overcome disadvantage and succeed in diverse and competitive environments.

	Autumn 1	Autumn 2	Spring 1	Spring 2	Summer 1	Summer 2
Year 7	Graphical Communication Skills	Fantastic Plastic	Fantastic Plastic	Fantastic Plastic	Designing for Clients / User Centred Design (memory money box)	Designing for Clients / User Centred Design (memory money box)
Year 8	Introduction to electricity.	Jewellery Box	Control and Mechanisms	Logo Design	Control and Mechanisms	Principles of Nutrition
Year 9	Introduction to electrical circuits	Graphic Designing	Metals	Night light	Moving Toy	Cooking and Nutrition

How does the study of Design and Technology link to future careers?

The study of Design and Technology links to future careers by equipping students with essential skills and knowledge that are highly valued in various industries. It fosters creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, which are crucial for innovation and leadership roles. The interdisciplinary nature of the subject allows students to integrate knowledge from different fields, making them adaptable and versatile professionals. Technological proficiency gained through hands-on experience with current and emerging tools prepares students for careers in engineering, product design, architecture, and other tech-driven fields. Additionally, the emphasis on sustainability, ethical considerations, collaboration, and communication prepares students to tackle real-world challenges responsibly and effectively, making them competitive candidates for a wide range of careers.

How does DT link to the extra-curricular provision at HSAEL?

At HSAEL we realised that Design and Technology is a subject that allows students to display their creativity and problem-solving skills. Having observed them in a variety of Design and Technology classes, and the enthusiasm they displayed, we have decided to form a DT Club that will enable these students to showcase and enhance their problem-solving and creativity skills.