Technical

The first year Technical course is based on introducing pupils to a variety of subjects, skills and techniques within the department.  They begin by learning What is Technology? to form a basis for the rest of the year.  They experience the workshop for the first time via a Structures project which develops their knowledge in the Engineering Science arm of Technical whilst also affording them an introduction to health and safety and the safe use of tools in the workshop.  This is a group task which allows them to develop their communication skills and learn to work with others to achieve a positive end result. Throughout the rest of the year they develop their Graphics knowledge through a Sketching unit, looking at Design and Manufacture through a Mechanical toy project which also furthers their engineering science knowledge, workshop experience and a more in depth knowledge of woods and where they come from. And finally learn about Electricity and how it works.

Within the Technical Department the S2 curriculum is designed to expand the knowledge acquired during S1 through varied and engaging practical projects. This includes designing and manufacturing a metal wind vane which introduces the pupils to Engineering skills such as brazing metal. This is followed by an Electronics unit which covers simulated circuits and soldering. Skills within Graphic Communication are developed during a Desk Top Publication project which includes designing a DVD cover, and completing manual orthographic drawings. The course is concluded with the manufacture of a photo frame which is constructed from wood. Throughout the year the pupils further their knowledge of the Technical Curriculum whilst using tools and machines confidently and safely alongside their peers.

The S2 elective within the Technical Department comprises of an 18 week course in Auto Engineering based mainly in the Education Departments Garage. During this time the pupils undertake one unit from the Intermediate 1 Automotive Skills, Skills for Work course. In undertaking the course they will learn to use automotive tools, gaining an understanding of systems in a car and undertake some routine and specialist maintenance procedures. Health and Safety and Employability Skills are paramount and pupils are required to wear suitable PPE.

If you are interested in the hands on approach to Engineering then this subject is for you. The broad general education you will gain in S3 Engineering will develop your practical skills and give you knowledge in the following areas:

·         Mechanical

·         Fabrication

·         Maintenance

·         Electrical Electronics

·         Design Engineering 

·         Manufacture

You will also start to develop employability skills and an understanding of the workplace.

Nationals

In this course you will develop skills in:

1.   Mechanical & Fabrication— in the engineering workshop learn to select and use tools, equipment, machinery and materials required to manufacture artefacts in metal.    Learn to read and understand engineering drawings.

2.   Electrical and Electronic— learn to select and use the correct tools and components required to construct low voltage electrical and electronic circuits from circuit             diagrams.

3.   Maintenance— Select tools and equipment required to test, disassemble, repair and assemble engineering parts.

4.   Design & Manufacture— Develop Computer Aided Draughting (CAD) skills, select  and use the correct tools and materials required to design, manufacture, test and evaluate an engineering project.

Employability Skills will be developed throughout all of the above tasks.

Progression

The engineering sector includes careers in the following:

·         Mechanical    

·         Manufacture

·         Oil/Gas

·         Fabrication     

·         Energy Generation

·         Welding

·         Electrical

·         Electronic

·         Foundry

·         Marine

·         Automotive

·         Maintenance

·         Transport

·         Aeronautical

·         Water

National 4/5  S4 Course

Why study this course?

Engineering is vital to everyday life; it shapes the world in which we live and its future. Engineers play key roles in meeting the needs of society in fields which include climate change, medicine, IT and transport.

Our society needs more engineers, and more young people with an informed view of engineering. The course provides a broad and challenging exploration of engineering and is ideal if you are considering going on to do engineering at university or college. You will build circuits, simulate circuits on a PC create computer programs to control models. You will also cover the theory and calculations involved.

The Work of the Course

There are three areas of study:

Contexts and challenges

You will learn about a range of real products and engineering projects and learn about the roles of Engineers by completing practical tasks of the type the carried out to complete the product or project. You will use mathematical and analytical methods to allow you to design ideas which will do their job properly.

Electronics and Control

You will develop an understanding of analogue and digital control systems by looking at the theory and the mathematical methods used to analyse them and then actively simulating and building circuits with components and micro-controller control systems.

Mechanisms and Structures

Investigate the principles and use of mechanisms and pneumatic circuits supported by a suitable structure to carry out a particular job within an Engineering project.

Design your ideas accurately using methods to calculate the exactly how the idea will work.

Course Assessment

An assignment assesses candidates’ ability to apply engineering science skills and knowledge developed and acquired during the course. The assignment is worth 31% of the final mark.

A written paper covers the remaining 69%.

Progression

Higher Engineering Science, Engineering at College, apprenticeship.

Higher Engineering Science

Why study this course?

Because you want to be an engineer

Entry requirements

A or B in N5 Engineering Science or 

N5 Maths/Physics/Computing at A or B or

Higher Maths or Physics.

Course Structure

Areas of Study

Engineering Contexts and Challenges

This Unit provides a context for the Course. It contributes to developing a deep understanding of engineering concepts by exploring a range of engineering problems and their solutions. This Unit allows the learner to explore some existing and emerging technologies and challenges, and to consider implications relating to the environment, sustainable development, and economic and social issues.

Electronics and Control

This Unit explores concepts and devices used in electronic control systems, including analogue, digital and programmable systems. Skills in problem solving and evaluating are developed through simulation, practical projects and investigative tasks in a range of contexts.

Mechanisms and Structures

This Unit develops understanding of mechanisms and structures. Skills in problem solving and evaluating are developed through simulation, practical projects and investigative tasks.

Course Assessment

An assignment assesses candidates’ ability to apply engineering science skills and knowledge developed and acquired during the course. The assignment is worth 31% of the final mark.

A written paper covers the remaining 69%.

Progression

This is an excellent Course to undertake if you are going to study engineering at university or college. Throughout the Course you will build circuits, simulate circuits on a PC, create basic programs to control models and cover the theory and calculations involved.

The Course is a great help when facing your first year at university studying engineering. The feedback from former pupils who have undertaken engineering courses is very positive.

Quote from a former pupil: "Tech Studies (the old name of the course) gave me a real grasp of the fundamental aspects of graduate engineering. University engineering builds on the theoretical aspects of the Course in particular."

National 4/5 (S4 Course)

Why study this course?

In this course you will be able to use your creativity to design and manufacture a range of products.

You will look at existing products to develop an understanding of design factors and evaluate the

products against these design factors and make suggestions for their improvement. You will then use

this knowledge to design your own products. The products will be manufactured from wood, metal,

plastic and extra items to allow them to do their job well. Products may include storage units,

household items and tools.

Course Structure

Design

You will create design proposals for a range of products by analysing in depth the need they should

meet and writing a detailed specification considering Function, Aesthetics, Performance, Ergonomics,

and Market, researching possible ideas, materials and construction methods and recording your

work in a folio using two and three dimensional sketches, drawings and models. You will also consider

and explain how manufacturing or using the product effects the environment and society.

Materials and Manufacturing

You will consider how products are made commercially. Then make a range of prototypes of your

design ideas in the workshop using suitable materials and using a plan for manufacture which you

have created. You will begin by selecting suitable materials for your prototype and justifying why that

material is suitable for that particular component Next you will confirm that you are able to use any

tools and equipment you need effectively and safely. Then you will make your prototype to a standard

which is generally free from faults and add a suitable, high quality, surface finish to it. Finally you will

evaluate and record how well your plan worked and on the quality of your final product describing any

ways in could be improved.

Course Assessment

The course will be assessed using two assignments, one folio based and one practical based which

will provide evidence of how well you have performed in both design and manufacture activities.

This will be followed by an external written

examination.

Progression

Higher Design and Manufacture, apprenticeship.

Higher Design and Manufacture

Why study this course?

This Course will help develop creative, flexible learners who are able to work autonomously, to achieve good quality, feasible proposals or outcomes through active experiences of product design. At its heart is creativity. The Course develops the ability to apply skills and knowledge in different situations — attributes which are becoming more and more valuable to individuals and organisations.

Entry Requirements

National 5 Design and Manufacture A or B pass

Or National 5 Graphic Communication A or B pass

Or National 5 Art and Design A or B pass

Course Structure

Areas of Study

Design and Manufacture: Design (Higher)

This unit covers the processes of product design from brief to resolved design proposals and specification. It helps learners develop skills in initiating, developing, articulating and communicating design proposals for products. It allows them to gain skills and experience in evaluating design proposals in order to refine, improve and resolve them. It allows them to develop an appreciation of design concepts and the various factors that influence the design and manufacture of products.

Design and Manufacture: Materials and Manufacturing (Higher)

This unit covers the processes of product design from design proposals to prototype. It allows learners to gain skills in planning and making models and prototypes. It helps learners to ‘close the design loop’ by manufacturing a set of design ideas. It allows them to develop an appreciation of manufacturing practicalities. It allows them to strengthen an appreciation of the various factors that influence the design and manufacture of products. It allows learners to consider the manufacturing techniques and processes that would apply to a design proposal in an industrial/commercial context.

Course Assessment

Consists of two equally weighted components:

Question paper 70 marks

Assignment   70 marks

More detailed information about the Course content can be obtained on the SQA website at

www.sqa.org.uk

Progression

A very useful subject to undertake if you wish to pursue a career in any engineering discipline but more specifically relates to career opportunities in Commercial Design, CAD, CAM, Industrial Design and Teaching.

Advanced Higher Design and Manufacture

Course Description

Why study this course?

This course will help develop creative, flexible learners who are able to work independently to achieve good quality feasible proposals or outcomes through the active experiences of Designing and Manufacturing theory.  At its heart, creativity.  The course develops the ability to apply skills and knowledge in different situations-attributes which are becoming more and more valuable to individuals and organizations.

Entry requirements

Higher Design and Manufacture

Only recommended if pursuing a career in this area or field in further education.

Course Structure

Product Analysis

In this unit you will analyse the performance and production of a commercial product.  You will consider the design in terms of its function, operation and use.  You will also have to consider the link between form and function and the impact of the design in terms of the environment, aesthetics, user interface and the socio-economics factors. 

Product Development

In this unit you would be asked to critically explore and redevelop an existing commercial product.  You will need to consider modifications that could be made and seek opportunities for designing and communicating improvements.   Through research and development and visualisation techniques you will present your ideas as a conclusion.

Product Evolution

In this unit you need to explore the historical factor which have influenced the design, development and manufacture of a commercial product in terms of the influences of technology, materials, trend, and policy and then consider how these factors have directed and influenced its evolution.

Course Assessment

Consists of two weighted components.

Assignment/project-60%

Exam Paper- 40%

Progression

Product Design Degree

What's the qualification?

Foundation Apprenticeship in Automotive at SCQF Level 4, which is the same level of learning as a National 4.

This includes:

· Skills for Work award in Automotive Skills (SCQF Level 4)

· Work Based Challenge Unit (SCQF Level 4)

What will I learn?

Your Skills for Work award will cover:

· The car

· The garage

· The technician

· Vehicle modification

You will use the skills and knowledge you develop in your Skills for Work Award to successfully complete the work-based challenge unit. You will:

· Work closely with an employer

· Deliver your project to a real-life client

· Develop an understanding of the automotive industry

Your Foundation Apprenticeship will also help you to develop meta-skills. These skills are highly valued by employers. Meta-skills include:

· Self-management

· Social intelligence

· Innovation

These meta-skills are necessary and highly desirable for working in a range of other related jobs.

Where could it take me?

Your Foundation Apprenticeship gives you lots of options; it’s up to you where you go next.

· A Modern Apprenticeship: On completing your Foundation Apprenticeship, you’ll have the knowledge and experience to progress your career through a Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF level 5 or SCQF level 6

· Further education: Continue your studies at college with a related subject. Your work-based learning will support your college application.

· Straight to a job: By developing your technical and meta skills, alongside your understanding of industry, you will have the key skills employers want.

Entry Requirements

Candidates must have the capacity (with support if required) to work at SCQF 4 level.

The Automotive Foundation Apprenticeship will teach you about the car and transport industry. You may want to choose this course if you are interested one day becoming a mechanic, an engineer, selling cars or parts, or just want to learn more about the industry. Automotive jobs involve using exciting new technology and are vital to Scotland.

Entry requirements / No previous qualifications are required.

Successful Candidates will acquire 24 SCQF credit points. 

Why study this course?

If you have a keen interest in further developing your practical skills, this course will contribute to your knowledge, understanding and practical experience. It will help you decide if you are considering a career in an industry which involves practical activity in any capacity.

The skills you will develop will encompass a wide range of woodworking techniques, usage of woods tools and materials. You will also be taught how to interpret drawings and diagrams, measuring and marking and how to work safely and correctly. 

The structure of the Course

Practical Woodworking: Flat-Frame

This unit will help you develop skills in the use of woodworking tools, as well as those required in making a range of joints and assemblies commonly used in flat-frame joinery. You will learn to read and use working drawings and diagrams.

Practical Woodworking: Carcase Construction

You will develop skills in making accurate woodworking joints and assemblies commonly used in carcase construction. The tasks will involve some complex features and may include working with manufactured board. You will also create designs, frames and panels. The unit involves the use of working drawings or diagrams, including unfamiliar contexts that will require you to develop interpretation skills.

Practical Woodworking: Machining and Finishing

This unit enables you to gain confidence using common machine and power tools accurately. You will practise using a variety of woodworking surface preparations and finishing techniques.

Projects

As you work through the skills listed above, you will consolidate your leaning by completing several projects. Each project gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to meet the standard and quality required of the course.  The projects you will manufacture will be;

·         Various wood joints

·         Extendable book rack

·         Tool storage holder

·         Trinket box

Course Assessment

A final project combining all of your learnt skills will then be produced and assessed. This, with your final written exam will determine your final grade.

• Question Paper (Exam) 30%   Duration one hour

• Final practical project    70%

Progression

This course will give you an excellent introduction to a career in the construction industry. It will help develop broad, generic skills in numeracy, thinking skills and working with others.

Why study this course?

There is a national shortage of qualified engineers. Practical Metalworking will develop practical engineering skills.

Entry requirements

No previous qualifications are required. Although the Engineering SFW course offers a range of experiences which would greatly benefit any candidate wishing to undertake the course.

The Structure of the Course

Bench Skills                                      This unit covers a range of metalwork skills using hand tools, including basic sheet-metal work, measuring and marking-out. The general ability to read and interpret drawings and diagrams is developed in this unit. Each candidate will produce one project from sheet-metal that utilises cutting, shaping, fitting and assembly skills.

Machine Processes                           The purpose of this unit is to extend knowledge of measuring and marking-out and to gain experience of common machines, equipment and related processes. Candidates will become familiar with the key features and functions of machines and other items of equipment commonly found in workshops, learning to use these in a safe and efficient manner. This includes metalworking lathes and pedestal drills. Candidates are expected to manufacture items accurately from the given drawings.

Fabrication & Thermal Joining            Fabrication means the forming and joining of components. Thermal joining (welding) techniques employed are those such as manual metal arc (MMA) and metal inert gas (MIG). These techniques allow an insight into methods commonly used in heavy fabrication work. Other thermal processes for joining metals, for example brazing or soldering, may also be covered.   

Course Assessment

A project combining all skills learnt is produced and assessed, followed by a written exam. The final grade is weighed heavily upon the quality and accuracy of the final project: this constitutes 80% of the final grade with the remaining 20% being scored in the written exam.

Progression

This course gives grounding for a career in hands on engineering. For those who plan to study engineering at university the course would give a practical grounding to some of the process they may cover.