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Teacher in Charge: Ms Sarah Graham sarah.graham@wdsg.school.nz
Course description:
Year 11 STEAM Studio is a hands on, practical, project-based course where students use science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics to investigate real-world problems and develop creative solutions. Students will build skills in research, design thinking, experimentation, prototyping, testing, making and reflection, while learning how to turn ideas into purposeful outcomes.
Throughout the course, students will explore how design and technology can respond to real-world contexts, including forces, movement, materials, sustainability and environmental challenges in Aotearoa New Zealand. They will use a range of creative and practical processes, which may include digital design, laser cutting, 3D modelling, construction, prototyping, testing, visual communication and applied design.
Students will be encouraged to think critically and creatively, take risks, solve problems, work collaboratively and refine their ideas through feedback and trial and error. STEAM Studio supports students to develop the adaptable skills needed for an evolving world, including innovation, practical confidence, environmental awareness and the ability to design thoughtful solutions for people, place and the future.
Course of Study:
Students will explore real-world design challenges through a STEAM approach, using research, creative thinking, experimentation and practical making to develop purposeful outcomes. They will learn to generate and refine ideas, test materials and processes, create prototypes, and evaluate their work in relation to fitness for purpose, sustainability, ethics, users and the environment. Throughout the course, students will collaborate, respond to feedback, and build confidence in developing innovative solutions for authentic contexts.
Assessment:
Students will build a portfolio of evidence that shows their learning journey across research, idea development, experimentation, prototyping, testing, making and reflection.
A portfolio is an organised collection of evidence that communicates a student’s thinking, practical skills, creativity and understanding of STEAM processes.
Students will be assessed on how effectively they investigate a context, develop and refine ideas, respond to feedback, and evaluate the fitness for purpose of their final outcome.
Year 11 - no NCEA achievement standards will be on offer for 2027
Costs:
Materials: up to $40 per term dependent on individualised student projects.
General supplies as per stationery list.
Entry criteria and future pathways:
This course has no prerequisites and is highly recommended for students interested in future pathways that combine creativity, technology and problem-solving, including design, engineering, architecture, environmental innovation, product design, digital technologies, animation, game design, robotics, science, sustainability, entrepreneurship and creative industries.
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