Design & Technology
Design & Technology is largely project based, involving students in planning, designing and constructing objects in response to a given brief. In the process they develop their drawing ability and learn to use Computer Aided Design Technology, as well as acquiring the practical skills needed for working with materials like wood, plastic and textiles.
The results are often impressive – from acrylic clocks to mechanical toys, dresses and kites to picnic benches. The quality of work our girls produce is underlined by their successes at the annual Engineering Inspiration Competition which showcases the design talent of young people across the region.
We seek to inspire and enthuse them during Key Stage 3, creating challenges which illustrate how design and technology integrate within the wider world. We borrow formats from television series like The Apprentice, setting a task for groups to tackle in class, presenting their designs, describing key features and explaining their plans for marketing.
During GCSE and A-Level, the girls have more freedom to follow their preferences for textiles or resistant materials. The small class groups allow girls the time and support to really express their individuality through their work, which pays dividends in the grades they receive.