Technology

Design Technology Curriculum Vision

Design & Technology is a practical, creative, and inspiring subject where students use imagination and problem-solving to design and make products for real-world needs. Working across a variety of contexts, they learn to consider the needs, values, and aspirations of both themselves and others.

Our curriculum gives students a broad knowledge base, drawing on mathematics, science, engineering, computing, and art, while developing confidence with tools, materials, and modern technologies. Students are encouraged to take risks and think innovatively.

Through exploring past and present design, students gain a critical understanding of how design and technology shapes daily life and the wider world. High-quality D&T education nurtures creativity, problem-solving, and practical skills that make a vital contribution to culture, well-being, and the economy.

Through Design & Technology, students develop transferable skills that are highly valued by employers across all sectors – including creativity, problem-solving, analytical thinking, and evaluation. At KS3, our curriculum is designed to equip students with the confidence, knowledge, and practical abilities to become innovative, adaptable, and employable young people who can thrive in an ever-changing world.

Design Technology Curriculum Design

Our Design & Technology curriculum is built on four core principles: Design, Make, Evaluate, and Technical Knowledge.

Design – Students develop creative ideas influenced by designers, design movements, and cultures, linking their work to real-world problems and innovative solutions.

Make – Practical learning equips students with the technical expertise to use specialist tools, materials, and digital technologies with confidence, independence, and craftsmanship.

Evaluate – Learners engage in reflective practice, critiquing their own work and that of others against clear criteria such as specifications and user needs.

Technical Knowledge – Students build a secure foundation of knowledge around materials, processes, and manufacturing methods, with an emphasis on sustainability and industry relevance.

Our curriculum provides a strong foundation for lifelong learning, preparing students with transferable skills such as creativity, problem-solving, critical thinking, and resilience. These skills not only support success in Design & Technology but also prepare learners for future study and careers in design, engineering, and related industries.

Through engaging projects, enrichment opportunities, and exposure to industry practice, students are encouraged to become curious, responsible, and innovative young designers who are ready to let their light shine.

KS3 Design and Technology Curriculum Intent 

Food Technology Curriculum Vision

In Food Technology, students will develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make informed choices about food, nutrition, and health. Our vision is to nurture creativity, independence, and responsibility by teaching learners how to prepare and cook a wide range of dishes safely and skilfully. Students will explore food from different cultures, understand the science behind cooking, and consider the impact of food choices on wellbeing, sustainability, and the wider world.

Through practical experiences and critical reflection, we aim to equip young people with the lifelong skills to cook, eat well, and contribute positively to their families and communities, while embracing innovation and curiosity in the kitchen.

Food Technology Curriculum Design

Our KS3 Food Technology curriculum is designed to give students the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make informed food choices for life. Built around five key pillars of knowledge, it provides a strong foundation for GCSE study and lifelong healthy living:

• Nutrition & Health – understanding macro- and micronutrients, the Eatwell Guide, and the impact of diet on health.
• Food Science – exploring the chemical and functional properties of ingredients and the science behind cooking.
• Food Safety & Hygiene – embedding safe food handling, preparation, and storage practices.
• Food Provenance & Production – developing awareness of where food comes from, its environmental and ethical impact, and sustainable choices.
• Food Preparation & Cooking Techniques – building practical competence in a wide range of cooking methods, knife skills, and presentation techniques.

Through a balance of theory and hands-on practice, students learn to plan and prepare nutritious meals, understand the science of food, and appreciate global and ethical issues around food sourcing.

Our curriculum is enriched by workshops, competitions, industry links, and real-world experiences, inspiring creativity and preparing students for future study and life beyond the classroom.

KS3 Food Technology Curriculum Intent 

KS4 Curriculum

We offer three courses at KS4:

• 3D Design - Part of the Art and Design GCSE
• Design and Technology GCSE
• Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE

KS4 Curriculum Intent

The document below displays the KS4 3D Design curriculum. A key part of the document is the core knowledge section which states the knowledge that we believe all KS4 students should embed within their long term memory in order to be success in 3D Design. This list should be used to prioritise your revision before moving onto deeper knowledge within the curriculum.

KS4 3D Design Curriculum Intent 

Design and Technology and Food Preparation and Nutrition will be uploaded soon.

Staff

• Ms R Doherty-Kirkwood - Head of Creative Arts
• Mr R Tinston - Deputy Head of Technology
• Miss Angela Newton
• Mrs B Kelly
• Mr C Cooper - Technician