Design and Technology/Product Design

From the start, students develop problem-solving and design thinking through exciting practical projects. 

Year 7

• Passive Amplifier: learn how to use workshop machines, operate Computer Aided Design software and cast with composite materials 

Year 8

• Mechanical Lamp: construct traditional wood joints, levers and circuits to create a personalised, adjustable lamp 

Students deepen their understanding of design processes, materials and scientific principles. 

Year 9

An optional year of DT with one double lesson per week, focused on three exciting projects:

• Hair Pin Coffee Table: design and manufacture a stylish, custom-made coffee table using a combination of steel legs and both hard and softwoods. There is the option of adding resin for a splash of colour or decorative routered edges, as well as the use of wood finishes such as oil, wax, stain and varnish.
• Perfume Bottle: students collaborate to design their own perfume brand campaign launch. Requirements; creating a 3D printed bottle, net packaging, a point-of-sale stand and a marketing video.
• Salad Servers:  a dive into the world of ergonomics and anthropometrics to create a biomimicry inspired set of salad servers using lamination, moulds and veneers

GCSE Design and Technology (Product Design) (Years 10–11)

Students take two double lessons a week, exploring materials, electronics and manufacturing techniques, while preparing for their GCSE Non-Examined Project (NEA) project. 

Key projects include:

• Trophy Project: taking CAD skills to the next level. Students will research designers from the GCSE specification to create a 3D printed trophy and exhibition board, inspired by their chosen designer, for an event of their choice.
•  Nespresso Holder: design and assemble a  Nespresso Pod holder, suitable for the head office of a company director, using any appropriate material or process. Delivered as a mock NEA, students will research, design, develop and manufacture a fully functioning prototype.

Students develop independence, innovation and resilience, culminating in a written exam (50% weighting) and an NEA(50% weighting) that begins in June of Year 10. Finishing in the Lent Term of Year 11.  

This course is ideal for students passionate about Product Design, innovation and manufacturing. It supports ambitions in Engineering, Industrial Design, Architecture, and much more. 

At A Level, students dive deeper into product development, sustainability and commercial viability, gaining skills highly sought after in the modern world. Projects are complex, created to an exceptional standard and something they will remember for years to come. 

A level Product Design