Why choose this subject?

Design and technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. It uses creativity and imagination to inspire design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts. It considers the needs of ourselves and the needs, wants and values of others. Students will acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, they develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world. 
High-quality design and technology education makes an essential contribution to the creativity, culture, wealth and well-being of the nation.
Design Technology is a practical subject taught in the Workshop, ICT and Design Suite or Food Technology room. Teaching involves: practical demonstrations and use of technical equipment

• class discussions, brainstorming and research
• working individually and in small groups
• using case studies, surveys and guest speakers
• self evaluation
• The use of computers is embedded across the subject, whether it be for design, manufacture of products, research, display or assessment purposes.

Design and technology enables children and young people to actively contribute to the creativity, culture, wealth and well-being of themselves, their community and the world around us.

Course content

Through a variety of creative and practical activities, pupils are taught the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to engage in an iterative process of designing and making. 

Students work in a range of domestic and local contexts for example, the home, health, leisure and culture, and industrial contexts ranging from engineering, manufacturing, construction, food, energy, agriculture and fashion.

At Key Stage 3, students at Lealands study a range of areas within the broad discipline of design and technology, exploring materials and ingredients through product design, textiles and cooking and nutrition. This will continue into year 9 as students learn key theoretical and practical knowledge, explore case studies, and implement their newly-acquired knowledge into their own projects. In doing so, they develop their capabilities for problem-analysis, solution-finding and research methods. They also explore the impact of technology upon the world around them, considering trends of technology in the rapidly-developing 21st century as well as considering the ethical, legal and cultural impacts of future technological developments.

Possible careers

There are plenty! And we’re not kidding. Design and technology can set you up for a career in a wide variety of roles such as a fashion designer, tailor, product designer, architect, software engineer, civil engineer, carpenter, a chef  and roles within the hospitality sector and even in education.

If you have any questions about Design Technology, please contact Mrs Mathurin, Director of Design Technology.