The Design and Technology (DT) department's philosophy is to provide an exciting experience for all pupils. We aim to challenge pupils' creativity and problem-solving skills through a wide variety of projects that encourage independent and practical thinking and that use a range of different materials. DT is a dynamic subject that is keeping pace with the ever-changing technology used in the industry. It prepares pupils for a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, architecture, product design and creative arts. DT at Kingswood focuses on these core elements of creativity and critical analysis within each project. The department is housed in a bright, well-resourced teaching block with two fully equipped workshops and a design studio with IT facilities. The variety of students’ projects as they enter the examinations demonstrates a key part of what makes the department such a vibrant place to be. We hold an annual exhibition that aims to showcase each student’s individuality and the choices they make to ensure that their design is bespoke. Kingswood offers many related extra-curricular activities, including jewellery making, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths), Eco-schools and opportunities to design and create individual projects in open workshop sessions. Many Kingswood pupils have applied for and received the prestigious Arkwright Scholarship, which is awarded to students aiming to study engineering. Design and Technology is a subject suited to students who are dynamic, questioning and keen to fundamentally improve the world we live in. The challenge to be original and to solve problems, as well as to be a practical maker is fundamental to design. The ability to look at the world and products, to evaluate them through design and manufacture, and to improve them through sketching and making to produce high-quality product design are the skills of a good designer. We currently offer two courses at A-level, Product Design (Edexcel) and 3D Design (AQA). The Product Design course will build up theory and practical skills and is suited to those who can meet a challenge and are driven to succeed. It will prepare students for further study in the world of design and engineering through creative output. The 3D design course is more art-based but is still a product design course looking at aspects of Architecture, sculpture, and small product design. The course looks at aspects of design history, drawing and CAD leading to a creative output in a practical examination.