Design and Technology (Product Design)

Course summary

The course provides a solid foundation for pupils who are interested in pursuing university courses or careers in architecture, engineering, product design, graphic design, project management, surveying, manufacturing and construction. With a continued focus on branding, graphic and written communication it would also suit those interested in starting their own business in the future. Y12 begins with the pupils receiving a live brief that requires them to make a collection of jewellery that will be auctioned through the MyStart charity during the run-up to Christmas. They take inspiration from the creative work and experiences of Kenyan refugees who receive all the profits from this initiative, again through our collaboration with MyStart. This project requires the pupils to design, prototype and manufacture a run of four identical pieces of jewellery. This builds their fine and accurate motor skills as they are working to a very high level of detail. To help achieve this goal the pupils attend a masterclass where they spend the day learning how to fuse, work and finish silver to a professional standard. The last three weeks of the Christmas term focus on teaching traditional carpentry skills to make simple but exceptionally crafted door wedges. The pupils receive three ‘chunks’ of contrasting rough-cut timber from which they need to produce a striking piece of minimalist design The first half of the lent term is a group project and focuses on using our CAD/CAM facilities to make a replica of part of the Barry buildings. The pupils survey the site and use the information to help create 3D CAD models of the components they wish to make using laser cutters and 3D printers. Following the construction of the 1/50 physical scale model they use their CAD to make a computer generated image of the Barry Building which they experience through our virtual reality headset. The pupils return to the workshops for their next project where they design a simple vehicle from stock pieces of shaped steel. They learn to accurately cut, grind, weld and then finish this material before finally powder coating the product with a bright colourful finish. Coursework: Practical application of technical principles through a portfolio, 50% of the final Level mark After Easter, the pupils start their coursework and are allowed to apply the skills they have acquired to help design and make a product of their own choice. They need to adopt a commercial design approach to their work, reflecting how professional designers deal with a design problem and its resolution. The product should provide opportunities for a client or user group to have input into the decision-making process. Sustainable design and the impact their project will have on the environment are key features of this unit. Pupils will make their chosen project and support it with a portfolio of appropriate research, design drawings, evidence of construction and testing.