Technology & Engineering
Staff
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Mr P McGlade (Acting Head of Technology)
Mr H Austin (Assistant Head of Technology)
Mrs E Wilson
Mr Peter Healy (Technician)
Key Stage 3
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Technology and Design is a stimulating, demanding, and hands-on subject. It harnesses creativity and imagination, allowing pupils to design and create products that address real-world issues across various contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, desires, and values. Pupils gain a comprehensive subject knowledge, integrating concepts from mathematics, science, engineering, computing, and art. They learn to take calculated risks, developing into resourceful, innovative, and enterprising individuals. By analysing historical and contemporary technology, they gain a critical awareness of its influence on daily life and the global community.
Aims
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• Cultivate the creative, technical, and practical skills required to confidently perform everyday tasks and thrive in an increasingly technological society.
• Develop and apply a wide range of knowledge, understanding, and skills to design and produce high-quality prototypes and products for diverse users.
• Analyse, evaluate, and test their own ideas and products, as well as those of others.
GCSE
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The CCEA GCSE Technology and Design specification encourages students to be innovative and prepared to take design risks.
Students explore the creative, engineering and manufacturing industries, as well as the importance of high quality technology and design.
Our GCSE Technology and Design curriculum provides students with foundational knowledge in several key areas before they specialise in one. Our focus includes the study of electronic and microelectronic control systems.
The assessment comprises two written exams, each accounting for 25% of the final grade, and a design and manufacturing project, which makes up the remaining 50%. Teachers assess the design project, and CCEA conducts moderation visits to the centres.
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This qualification builds on the knowledge, understanding, and skills developed through the Science and Technology Area of Learning, as well as the Cross-Curricular Skill of Using ICT.
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The specification is unitised, allowing students to complete part of the assessment at the end of the first year of study.
The curriculum is divided into three units:
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Unit 1: Core Content in Technology and Design
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Unit 2: Electronic and Microelectronic Control Systems
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Unit 3: Design and Manufacturing Project
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A-Level
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The CCEA GCE Technology and Design specification aims to encourage students to identify and overcome challenges and constraints while striving to create high-quality products.
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This specification is available at two levels: AS and A2. Students can complete the AS units and then progress to the A2 units to achieve a full GCE A-level qualification. Alternatively, they can opt to take the AS course on its own as a standalone qualification.
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The AS units encompass a common core of design and materials, along with a specialised study of product design. Students also undertake a product development task, which is assessed internally.
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Students advancing to A2 delve deeper into systems and control, as well as product design, compared to the AS level. The A2 course includes an internally assessed design-and-make task.
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The specification consists of four units:
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Unit AS 1: Core: Design and Materials, and Option: Product Design
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Unit AS 2: Coursework: Product Development
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Unit A2 1: Product Design
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Unit A2 2: Coursework: Product–System Design and Manufacture
Post A-Level
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After completing A-levels in Technology, students often pursue diverse and dynamic career paths. Many opt for higher education in fields such as Engineering, Product Design, and Software Engineering, enrolling in universities to further their expertise. Others choose higher apprenticeships, blending practical work experience with academic learning, which can lead to careers in advanced manufacturing, IT, and technical project management. The skills and knowledge gained from A-level Technology provide a strong foundation for these professions, equipping students with the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities necessary for success in these technical and creative industries.
Enrichment/Extra Curricular
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The Technology department offers a variety of extracurricular activities designed to enrich students' learning experiences and spark their interest in the field. These activities include the Lego Club, where students can enhance their creativity and problem-solving skills through engaging building challenges. The Controlled Assessment Club provides additional support for coursework, helping students excel in their assessments. Exciting trips, such as the Range Rover factory tour, offer insights into advanced manufacturing processes. Initiatives like Sentinus and the Arkwright Scholarships support budding engineers and designers with mentorship and funding opportunities. Additionally, the James Dyson Foundation inspires innovation and practical application of technology through hands-on projects and competitions. These activities collectively foster a vibrant learning environment, encouraging students to explore and excel in technology.
CEAIG
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The Technology Department plays a pivotal role in providing Careers Education, Information, Advice, and Guidance (CEIAG) to students. They offer tailored careers advice, helping students explore various pathways in technology-related fields. The department facilitates work experience opportunities, allowing students to gain hands-on experience and insights into potential careers. Additionally, they organise visits to Universities, giving students a glimpse of higher education options and the chance to engage with industry professionals and academics. Through these initiatives, the Technology Department ensures that students are well-informed and prepared for their future careers.
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