Design Technology
Design and Technology
Curriculum Intent
At Wyvern Academy, Design and Technology develops creative, confident and resilient problem-solvers. Students learn to think like designers and engineers by identifying problems, generating ideas, communicating solutions and producing high-quality outcomes.
Through practical projects and engineering challenges, students develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed for further study and careers in engineering, manufacturing, construction and product design.
Curriculum Overview - Design and Technology
Key Stage 3
Students complete a range of practical projects that develop designing, manufacturing and evaluation skills. They learn to work safely with a variety of materials, tools and equipment whilst developing skills in sketching, CAD, laser cutting, electronics and product manufacture.
Projects currently include:
- Acrylic Keyrings (Year 7)
-
Biomimicry Pewter Pendants/Jewellery (Year 8)
- LED Night Lights (Year 9)
Throughout Key Stage 3, students build a strong foundation in design communication, workshop skills, CAD/CAM, problem-solving and product evaluation.
Key Stage 4 – OCR Cambridge National Engineering Design
Students study the OCR Cambridge National in Engineering Design (J822), which combines practical coursework with an examined unit.
R038 – Principles of Engineering Design
Students learn about:
- Design strategies and the design process
- Research and product analysis
- Design requirements and specifications
- Engineering drawings and design communication
- Modelling and evaluation techniques
R039 – Communicating Designs
Students develop professional design communication skills through:
- Freehand sketching and rendering
- Engineering drawing techniques
- Orthographic and technical drawings
- Dimensioning and annotation
- Computer Aided Design (CAD)
R040 – Design, Evaluation and Modelling
Students apply their knowledge to:
- Develop design solutions
- Produce virtual and physical models
- Test and evaluate prototypes
- Refine and improve designs
- Present and justify design decisions
Careers and Future Pathways
The subject develops creativity, communication, problem-solving and technical skills that are highly valued by employers.
Students can progress into:
- Engineering
- Manufacturing
- Product Design
- Construction
- Architecture
- CAD and Technical Drawing
- Apprenticeships
- T Levels
- A Levels and Further Education
Design and Technology students understand how ideas become real products and prepares them for the rapidly changing world of design, engineering and technology.