“It would seem that more than function itself, simplicity is the deciding factor in the aesthetic equation. One might call the process beauty through function and simplification.”
KS3
Students in years 7,8 & 9 receive 1 period of Technology a week. These include experiences in Graphics, Resistant Materials, Systems & Control (Electronics) and Product Design. All projects have been designed with a particular focus on practical skills, sustainability and designing for the real world. An annual charge of £10 is requested at the start of Years 7-11 as a voluntary contribution towards the cost of materials required to deliver the quality products which are made by students in Key Stage 3. After developing a range of different skills in each project he will then choice of opting for GCSE Design & Technology at the end of year 9.
| YEAR CURRICULUM | ||
|---|---|---|
| Year 7: | Year 8: | Year 9: |
| Graphical Communication | Graphical Communication | Graphical Communication |
| Making & Modelling skills | Clock Project | Intro to Graphics/Product Design |
| USB Mood Lamp | Making & Modelling skills | Le Mans Car Project |
| Penguin Mould Project | Spinning Art Project | Lamp Project |
KS4
In year 10 learners will receive 5 hours of D&T during the 2 weeks and year 11 learners receive 5 periods every 2 weeks . In the GCSE course they are expected to produce a design project folio and practical element in addition to sitting a written exam. The area of Design & Technology at Saint Bonaventure’s school is as follows:
GCSE Design and Technology will prepare students to participate confidently and successfully in an increasingly technological world. Students will gain awareness and learn from wider influences on Design and Technology including historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic factors. Students will get the opportunity to work creatively when designing and making and apply technical and practical expertise.
Our GCSE allows students to study core technical and designing and making principles, including a broad range of design processes, materials techniques and equipment. They will also have the opportunity to study specialist technical principles in greater depth.
KS5
At Key Stage 5 Saint Bonaventure’s school offers AQA Product Design course at A level details can be found at: A-level Design and Technology: Product Design
This creative and thought-provoking qualification gives students the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in a number of careers. Especially those in the creative industries.
They will investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put their learning in to practice by producing prototypes of their choice.
Students will gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, alongside the knowledge and skills sought by higher education and employers.
We’re confident you’ll find this specification clear and easy to use, as a number of teachers and assessment experts have helped us to produce it.
Taught by specialist tutors, you will have access to fully equipped creative workshops including 3D (wood, metal, plastics) and CAD/CAM design facilities.
Staffing:
There are currently Three members of staff working in the department and two dedicated technician.
Arkwright Scholarship
The Arkwright Scholarships identify, inspire and nurture future leaders in Engineering, Computing and technical (as opposed to aesthetic) Design. By awarding Arkwright Engineering Scholarships, through a rigorous selection process, to high-calibre students in year 11. Their Engineering Scholarships support students through their A Levels and encourage students to pursue Engineering, Computing or technical Design at university or through a higher-level apprenticeship and to take up careers in the field.
Every Scholarship is sponsored by industrial companies, universities, charitable trusts, trade associations, professional engineering institutions, the Armed Services, Worshipful Companies, industry regulators or personal donors.
Of the 804 applicants 264 students were selected and awarded the Scholarship. There were 247 schools from across the UK who had applicants and Raphael distinguished himself at the highest level to be amongst the final group.
“Arkwright Scholars are very special young people. They combine excellent academic performance at GCSE, enthusiasm for and commitment to science, engineering and Technology as their intended career path with a range of other achievements and contributions to society in the arts, sport, outdoor pursuits, voluntary and charitable work and the like. The industry and business environment in the UK – along with Society in general – will undoubtedly reap the benefit of the support and encouragement afforded to the individuals via the Arkwright Scholarships trust. It was a privilege to play a small part in marking their achievements at this year’s ceremony”.
Sir John O’Reilly
Scholars are selected following a rigorous selection process comprising an application, Arkwright Aptitude Paper and interview. During the interview students presented their GCE project work to a panel of interviewers and discussed their commitment to design, engineering and technology.