Key Stage 4
A GCSE course in Design and Technology (WJEC specification) offers a unique opportunity for pupils to identify and solve real problems by designing and making products in a wide range of contexts relating to their personal interests. Design and Technology develops pupils' Key Skills and their capacity for imaginative, innovative thinking, creativity and independence. The courses offered are based upon the view that design and technology is essentially a manufacturing activity involving the combination of skills with knowledge and understanding in order to design and make quality products. Pupils have the opportunity to analyse and evaluate situations, design and make products, and then appraise their performance via the following specialist areas:
Resistant Material Technology
Graphic Products
Textile Technology
Food Technology
Through these courses pupils can develop their skills whilst focusing upon a specific material. They are given the opportunity to:
- make decisions, consider sustainability and combine skills with knowledge and understanding in order to design and make quality products;
- explore ways in which aesthetic, technical, economic, environmental, ethical and social dimensions interact to shape designing and making;
- analyse existing products and produce practical solutions to needs, wants and opportunities, recognising their impact on quality of life;
- develop decision-making skills through individual and collaborative working;
- understand that designing and making reflect and influence cultures and societies, and that products have an impact on lifestyle;
- develop skills of creativity and critical analysis through making links between the principles of good design, existing solutions and technological knowledge.
- Study designers such as Ross Lovegrove, James Dyson, Neville Brody and John Galliano.
