At Hilbre High School, students initially build on prior learning from primary school, which has been laid in KS1 and KS2. For the majority of students, there is a significant change in the learning environment in which D&T is taught. The use of specialised rooms and equipment enables a greater depth of learning that many students will not have experienced in primary school.

What do students’ study for each Key Stage?

Key Stage 3: Students initially develop their skills in a number of Focussed Practical Tasks (FPTs) and some initial Design and Make Activities/projects (DMAs). FPTs and DMAs initially are more closed design brief during the first few projects. This is to develop their skills further for more challenging activities in secondary school. As the curriculum progresses, key elements of the D&T curriculum are revisited to help secure key subject knowledge.

Key Stages 4 and 5: Students will be equipped with a wide range of experience, FPTs and DMAs become more challenging, open and independent in nature. Students learn a number of theory principles; mathematical skills; develop knowledge of careers and industries; etc. Students then apply their subject knowledge and their problem-solving skills independently for their NEA and examinations in Year 11-13.

What is important about our subject?

The philosophy of the department, in summary, is that through the iterative processes of ‘design, make and evaluate’, students gain a sound education in technology whichever the medium they are working in. This can be thought of as a series of stages – the perceived need for a product, the design stage, the use of practical skills to work safely with equipment and materials in producing a product, and the evaluation of the finished article.

Students learn to recognise needs, wants and opportunities within society and respond to these by producing a range of ideas and products. It encourages creative thinking, independence of thought, perseverance, the development of craft skills and the ability to offer a critical evaluation of their work. 

It encourages students to think about safety and the need for discipline in what can be a potentially dangerous environment.

The study of Design and Technology enhances the quality of students’ learning through developing attitudes of cooperation and collaboration.

Students learn about our technological heritage and about influence of technology in society.