The subject calls for students to become autonomous and creative problem solvers, as individuals and members of teams, who must look for needs, wants and opportunities and respond to them by developing a range of ideas.
An important feature of design and technology is that it makes immediate and practical use of knowledge and skills from other subjects.
It is linked with art and design, mathematics and science.
Through design and technology, all students have the potential to become innovators as well as discriminating and informed users of products.
Our Design and Technology Building includes catering standard kitchens and two large textiles rooms, available for both our college students and our year 7 to 11s.
Examination Board: AQA
Course Leader: Mr J Wells
Entry Requirements: Minimum 6 GCSEs at Grade 9-4 mainly at Grade 6 or above.
Design Technology at Grade C or above.
Course Content:
Product Design aims to foster intellectual curiosity about the design and manufacture of products, as well as improving practical skills such as sketching, making and CAD CAM.
Through a combination of short, focused practical tasks and extended design projects, you will develop your ability as a designer to create and prototype innovative solutions to the needs and wants of a client in response to real-world problems.
You will also establish a comprehensive understanding of the materials, processes and professional practices that shape the way that modern designers operate.
The Design and Technology building provides a calm and focused working environment, and all year 12 students are trusted to use independently the various technologies available, such as the laser cutters, 3D printers and workshop equipment.
Future Prospects:
Product Design A-Level will prepare you for a university degree or apprenticeship in a range of design-related subjects, such as Product Design, Engineering, Architecture, Interior Design and Computer-Aided Design.
Course Leader: Mr P Baxter
Entry Requirements: Minimum 6 GCSEs at Grade 9-4 mainly at Grade 6 or above.
English Language at Grade 5 or above.
Course Content:
This course is designed to create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform and captivate. You will have an exciting opportunity to explore ideas, materials, processes and techniques in depth using the excellent Bennedict state of the art facilities.
You will explore creativity in interactive media, packaging, design, design for print, illustration, communication, graphics, branding and multimedia graphic design.
Assessment is by both coursework and terminal practical examinations.
Future Prospects:
This course will prepare students for a foundation course in Art and Design prior to a degree course and provide the right skills for a variety of creative vocations.
Examination Board: AQA
Course Leader: Ms H Baker
Entry Requirements: Minimum 6 GCSEs at Grade 9-4 mainly at Grade 6 or above. Art at Grade 5 or Textiles Technical Award at Merit or above is preferable.
Course Content:
You will have the opportunity to develop skills over a broad range of textiles and fashion techniques and applications such as printing, weaving, knitting, mixed media, digital applications, surface design, embroidery and installation.
Practical work is produced by researching and developing ideas using drawing, digital exploration, sketchbooks and work sheets, supported by critical evaluation and an awareness of contemporary and historical influences.
Future Prospects:
This course will prepare you for a Foundation course in Art and Design prior to a Degree course, a wide range of Textile related industries, or courses related to the fashion business.