Technology at this school covers resistant materials (wood, metal, plastic, graphics, electronics and control), food, textiles and information and communication technology (ICT). We aim to introduce the students to the design process, giving them the opportunity to identify needs, generate ideas, plan, make, test and evaluate their own practical solutions. To do this we need to provide a background of knowledge and understanding and help them to develop manufacturing skills in various materials using a wide range of techniques and processes. The ICT provision of the school is reviewed regularly, thus ensuring that all students have the opportunity to access facilities which can be related to those encountered in higher education, business and commerce.

Years 7, 8 and 9

In design and technology the knowledge and skills are taught mainly through short practical tasks. Students are taught in mixed ability sets for two hours per week and will cover all areas in the course of each year. ICT is taught in forms for one hour per week, using cross-curricular links with particular reference to business studies where possible, to teach skills in a range of software.

Years 10 and 11 - GCSE

All students are encouraged to take some form of design and technology course, but can specialise in which material they study; food, textiles, graphic products or resistant materials are the options. Each course involves a final examination (40% of final grade) and coursework consisting of a major design project (60%). The department currently uses the OCR examination syllabus in year 11 and AQA in year 10.

The home economics department also offers child development. This course centres on the study of the family and the interaction between its members; the physical, intellectual, emotional and social development of children between birth and five years of age; children with special needs and possible community provision for them. Students have to complete a variety of coursework tasks including a child study and a week of observation and participation in a nursery.

Based on aptitude at KS3, Key Stage 4 ICT students are allocated a place in Full or Short course GCSE or Functional Skills (Key Skills level 2 for our current year 11 groups). The GCSE courses involve final examinations (40%) and coursework (60%). Functional skills involves continuous portfolio development and is assessed by examination for level 1 and 2. Key Skills assessment is by portfolio and multiple choice tests.

Years 12 and 13 - A-Level

Design and technology: currently, product design is offered at AS and A2. This exciting AQA course allows students to specialise in textiles technology, resistant materials technology or graphics with materials technology. Two units are completed in each year; practical coursework (50%), and a materials based examination (50%) including design & technology in society.

Product Design: Food Technology is also offered. This follows the AQA specification and comprises 2 units at AS, one written paper covers materials, components and applications (50%) and a portfolio of practical based work, learning through designing and making, is submitted for the final 50%. At A2 students complete one major practical piece of coursework and another written examination.

ICT is offered at AS level and A2. Final grades are obtained via two written exams (30% each) and two coursework projects (20% each). A task-driven approach will be taken, relying on effective use of ICT systems.

The computer network is widely used by sixth form students in their study periods to prepare work for assignments across the curriculum.

Within the faculty we encourage participation in a number of competitions, events and schemes, such as the food hygiene certificate, the Rotary technology tournament or the Engineering Education Scheme. Visits are arranged where possible to develop the theme of technology in an industrial context.