Meet the Engineering Team
Mr D Grainger – Head of Department
Mr D Woods – Assistant Headteacher
Technician
Mr N Owen – STEM Team Leader (Art & Science)
Curriculum Intent
Vision:
In an increasingly virtual world, the study of Art and Design Technology aims to give students the skills to interact with the physical world around them, confidently and successfully. We also aim to teach students truly useful creative digital skills that go beyond their everyday use of technology, and to set up students to take responsibility for their own success, and the resilience to cope with mistakes when they occur.
We study Art and Design Technology through a range of disciplines which allows us to teach students to interpret, observe and make sense of the world and its cultural histories. All students are regarded as creative individuals whose creativity is further stimulated by a diverse and exciting curriculum. Students are encouraged to think big and strive for success regardless of their ability. A stimulating passion for lifelong learning and diversity encourages students to experiment with media and learn new skills, whilst developing their aesthetic sensibilities. A sound knowledge of Art & Technology within the creative industries will therefore be achieved.
Principles
We aim to remove barriers to teaching and learning, to allow students to achieve their absolute best in our subjects. Insofar as is possible, all students are encouraged to take part in all activities in all subject areas. Students can become ‘expert’ in skills, and improve their own learning by instructing other students in the class.
We aim to deliver the National Curriculum in Art Design Technology. Students will learn by:
- Developing their understanding of cultural contexts through critical analysis and evaluation and comparing the work of artists, designers, themes, styles and movements.
- Refining a wide range of transferable skills such as working to a specific brief, measuring, drawing, painting, sewing, construction, cooking, building, sculpting and printmaking.
- Attending Art and Design exhibitions and museums outside of school and scrutinizing work in situ.
- Refining, evaluating and presenting their work to the highest standard.
- Expressing themselves within their work as part of a creative journey.
- Revising thinking skills and problem-solving skills creatively are something all modern employers are looking for and can take students far beyond the school learning environment.
Our Topics
Year 7
Hooks and Pegs project
Year 8
Light Project
Year 9 - Gateway Year
Project 1 – Paracord Puzzle
Project 2 – Toasting Fork
Project 3 – Photo Stand
Project 4 – Wooden torch
Project 5 – Rotating Platform
Project 1 – Amplifier
Project 2 – Toast Tongs
Project 3 – Phone Stand
Project – Electric Vehicle
Project 1 – Lift Bridge
Externally Set Project
Revision for Final Exam
Careers
Engineering is about designing, building, and improving systems, machines, and structures. It combines creativity with technical skill to solve real-world problems.
Direct Engineering Careers
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Mechanical Engineer – designing machines, engines, and tools.
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Civil Engineer – working on buildings, bridges, and infrastructure.
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Electrical Engineer – developing electrical systems, power, and energy solutions.
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Software / Computer Engineer – creating software, robotics, and AI systems.
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Aerospace Engineer – designing aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites.
Broader Opportunities
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Automotive Industry – working on cars, motorsports, and sustainable transport.
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Energy Sector – renewable energy, nuclear, and environmental solutions.
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Biomedical Engineering – creating medical equipment and prosthetics.
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Defence and Security – engineering for safety, communications, and technology.
Transferable Skills
Engineering builds:
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Problem-solving and innovation.
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Strong maths and science knowledge.
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Teamwork and leadership.
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Project design, testing, and evaluation.
Next Steps
Engineering can be studied at college, university, or through apprenticeships in many specialist fields. There is a high demand for engineers worldwide, offering excellent career prospects.
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