Design & Technology is a practical and creative subject that encourages students to explore and solve real-world problems through innovative thinking, designing, and making. It equips students with essential skills in critical analysis, technical expertise, and creativity while fostering a deeper understanding of how design impacts individuals, society, and the environment.
DT combines disciplines such as engineering, textiles, food technology, and graphics, allowing students to develop versatility and adaptability. Through hands-on projects, students apply mathematical and scientific principles, enhancing their understanding of material properties, structures, and sustainability.
Our DT curriculum is designed to inspire creativity and innovation while equipping students with the technical and practical skills required for modern-day problem-solving. Key aims include:
Empowering students to become independent thinkers and confident decision-makers.
Teaching students to evaluate and consider the environmental and social impact of their designs.
Encouraging exploration of traditional and emerging technologies to produce high-quality outcomes.
By engaging with challenging design briefs, students develop resilience, attention to detail, and an appreciation for aesthetics and functionality.
Our curriculum integrates practical skills with theoretical knowledge, ensuring students are prepared for the demands of the 21st-century workforce:
KS3: Students build foundational skills across disciplines such as textiles, resistant materials, graphics, and food technology. Projects include sewing, electronics, CAD/CAM and sustainable design.
KS4: Students specialise further, preparing for GCSEs by working on coursework-based Non-Examined Assessments (NEA) that require detailed research, design, and prototyping. Core topics include technical principles, specialist design, and manufacturing processes.
KS5: Advanced study at A-level enables students to explore complex technical principles, undertake ambitious design projects and prepare for higher education or careers in design and engineering.
DT projects are often linked to real-world scenarios, incorporating cross-curricular links with mathematics, science, geography, and history to provide a comprehensive and interdisciplinary learning experience.
DT lessons are structured to combine theory with practical application:
Creative Exploration: Students develop design briefs, conduct research and experiment with materials and tools.
Hands-On Practice: Students gain proficiency in using machinery, digital tools and traditional craft techniques.
Sustainability Focus: Students learn to consider environmental impacts, exploring topics like renewable materials and the 6Rs of sustainability.
Evaluation and Iteration: Emphasis is placed on testing prototypes, analysing feedback, and refining designs for continuous improvement.
By the end of the DT curriculum, students will have:
Developed technical expertise across multiple disciplines, including textiles, graphics, and food technology.
Mastered practical skills and the use of specialised equipment.
Acquired the ability to critically evaluate designs for functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability.
Gained confidence in presenting ideas and communicating effectively through visual and written media.
Design & Technology at Coloma prepares students to think creatively, solve problems, and contribute meaningfully to an ever-evolving technological world. Through engaging projects and real-world applications, students are inspired to innovate and excel.
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| DT Curriculum Overview |