Head of Design & Technology

The Lower School (Year 7 to Year 9) curriculum has been carefully crafted and sequenced to encourage independent learning, develop designing and making skills, alongside improving examination technique. Classes are taught on a carousel basis and transfer to a new project at the end of every term. Pupils study a range of theoretical and practical lessons based on three main areas of focus: Product Design, Engineering and Food Technology. Three lessons are taught over two weeks, within which, one is a double period. We use a range of assessment and investigations to introduce, consolidate and extend pupils’ understanding of the subject. We encourage pupils to develop a more in-depth understanding of the principles they are currently learning, and this gives them a wider breadth of knowledge.

The AQA GCSE 9-1 Curriculum follows on from the work that has been completed in the Lower School, both consolidating parts of it that have previously been covered to GCSE Level but also extending other parts so pupils can access the Level 9 GCSE grade. Sixth Form students also follow the AQA specification for Product Design.

Examination Results The Design and Technology department has a track record of examination success: at GCSE, 60% of the 2025 cohort achieved grades 8-9, while 88% achieved grades 7-9. At A-Level, students achieved 44% A*-A and 100% achieved A*-B. Students leaving the School to study Design and Technology at university often do so at prestigious institutions.