Embedded Files
Key Stage 3 / Cyfnod Allweddol 3
At Key Stage 3, pupils develop confidence, creativity and problem-solving skills through hands-on making activities. Projects are carefully planned so that each one builds on previous learning, introducing new skills, materials and tools step by step. Pupils progress from using traditional hand tools to more advanced computer aided design / computer aided manufacture (CAD/CAM) technology. This structured approach helps pupils develop essential practical skills, design thinking, and numeracy skills, preparing them for success at Key Stage 4.
Year 7 / Blwyddyn 7
During Year 7, pupils complete a Welsh love spoon project, which involves the research, design, and manufacture of a traditional Welsh love spoon. This project supports the Curriculum for Wales by developing pupils’ understanding of their culture, society, and the wider world.
Through this project, pupils develop a range of key skills, including:
understanding different categories of wood and their properties
exploring environmental issues such as deforestation and its impact
learning about the history and cultural significance of Welsh love spoons
generating, developing, and modelling design ideas to produce a final, functional product.
Year 8 / Blwyddyn 8
Pupils design, develop and manufacture a tea-light holder. In carrying out the project, pupils use a combination of aluminium and wood in their designs. Pupils begin the project by carrying out research, which includes analysing similar products, considering a range of factors such as safety, function and materials used etc. Pupils build on their designing and developing skills gained in year 7, to produce a final workable design. Pupils use a wide range of skills, including numeracy, developing their knowledge of sustainability as well as gaining confidence in using a variety of hand tools and machinery
Year 9 / Blwyddyn 9
In Year 9, pupils undertake a practical project to design and manufacture a mobile phone holder, working with a range of materials such as acrylic and aluminium composite. As part of this project, pupils develop their CAD skills using 2D Design software to create precise drawings for the acrylic component, which is then laser cut. They also design and shape the aluminium composite element and learn how to safely heat and bend acrylic to achieve the desired form. This project builds a strong understanding of materials, and develops essential design and manufacturing skills, preparing pupils for further study in Product Design at Key Stage 4.
Useful Links and Resources
These websites can help pupils develop their design, making, problem-solving and numeracy skills at home.
Careers and Future Pathways
Careers and Future Pathways
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