Design Technology
Once again, it has been a busy and productive year in the Design & Technology learning area. Key Stage three students have been developing their understanding of the world around them through the MYP model of study; our Key Stage four students are deeply engrossed in their coursework for their GCSE qualifications and our Key Stage five students have completed all of their external examinations and are now off to follow their dreams for the future.
First ever winners - Landsec Made in the UK
In the Spring edition you will remember our students winning the regional competition hosted by Landsec and Bluewater. Henna, David and Zak, as regional winners got through to the national competition and had to redeliver and compete via an online presentation to a regional set of judges; they did a fantastic job.
Their redesign of an empty retail unit was concluded by the judges as Team "Firefly" immersive light show, VR experience, and sensory room was a unique idea to use the space. Team Firefly opted to use their unit as a sensory escape from a busy shopping centre environment, full of super immersive tech, virtual reality experiences-like stepping into an alternate reality.
They received high praise from the national judges;
“Incredibly professional group, all took turns and had clearly set out sections of the powerpoint to deliver, this worked well.”,
“Loved the idea! Brilliant concept and something I would love to see somewhere in our shopping centre portfolio! Great to consider having seasonal rotations to keep things fresh and drive repeat visits, shows real commercial awareness.”
We have eagerly awaited the results and our team Firefly have been crowned national winners. This is a huge feat and they will forever hold the title of being the first ever winners of the competition. As a prize they will be visiting the Landsec Headquarters in the very near future. Well done!
In Engineering, our Year 10 students have completed their first unit of coursework. They have worked so well to develop their understanding of engineering drawing, meaning they have been able to manufacture an accurate product that meets the required tolerances. They have shown that they are able to use such a wide range of tools and equipment with confidence and expertise.
All of our Engineering students demonstrated so much commitment to their coursework and we are proud of each and everyone one of them!
Equally, our Key Stage three students have been busy in the workshop developing their practical skills.
Year 7 students have been working with a wide range of materials and techniques to produce several amazing outcomes during the year, including a sustainable child's toy and a bird feeder!
Earlier in the year we had a really informative visit from Artic, a company who are industry leaders in building services. Not only did they bring their Sidecar they also inspired our students by explaining the wide range of apprenticeships that they offer.
