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Design & Technology

The intent of Design & Technology education at Sandy Secondary School is to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and creativity necessary to engage with the evolving world of design, engineering, and technology. We aim to inspire students to explore practical, real-world challenges through the design and creation of innovative solutions.

The curriculum fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical proficiency while emphasising the importance of sustainability, ethics, and collaborative working. By cultivating a culture of innovation and practical learning, we prepare students for a wide range of future careers.

Bradley Tillett

Teacher of Design Technology

David Matthews

Curriculum Leader Design Technology

Hollie Ward

Teacher of Design Technology

Samuel Phillips

Teacher of Design Technology & Engineering

Curriculum Intent, Implementation & Impact

Our Design & Technology curriculum is built around three core pillars. Expand the sections below to read our full statements on what we aim to achieve, how we deliver it, and the difference it makes to our students.

  • The intent of Design & Technology education at the secondary level is to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and creativity necessary to engage with the evolving world of design, engineering, and technology.
  • We aim to inspire students to explore practical, real-world challenges through the design and creation of innovative solutions.
  • The curriculum fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical proficiency while emphasising the importance of sustainability, ethics, and collaborative working.
  • By cultivating a culture of innovation and practical learning, we aim to play a role in promoting and preparing students for a wide range of future careers, as well as instilling confidence in their own abilities to contribute to technological advancements and the world of Design.
  • Implementation Our Design & Technology curriculum is implemented through a hands-on approach that blends theoretical understanding with practical application.
  • Students engage in a variety of projects that span across three main fields, including product design, engineering, electronics, and systems and control.
  • Teaching is delivered through a combination of classroom instruction, practical workshops, and collaborative tasks, ensuring that students acquire both technical and creative skills.
  • Resources and tools are carefully selected to support innovative learning, including CAD software, 3D printers, and prototyping materials.
  • Assessment is both formative and summative, ensuring that students develop a robust understanding of the design process and can demonstrate their learning through project work, practical assessments, and examinations.
  • The impact of our Design & Technology curriculum is evident in the increased confidence, creativity, and problem-solving skills displayed by students as they learn and develop their awareness of the subject and how it plays a crucial part in the wider curriculum.
  • The opportunities are there for students to leave with a deep understanding of how to approach complex problems and design effective solutions, using technology responsibly and sustainably.
  • Students are equipped with transferable skills that can be applied in various industries or further education, with many going on to pursue careers in engineering, architecture, industrial design, and other related fields.
  • Through their engagement with the curriculum, students also develop strong communication and teamwork abilities, preparing them for collaborative environments in both academic and professional settings.
  • Ultimately, the schemes of learning aim to do their part in influencing a generation of thoughtful innovators who are capable of inducing positive change in the world through their technological expertise.
  • Our Design & Technology curriculum is implemented through a hands-on approach that blends theoretical understanding with practical application. Students engage in a variety of projects that span across three main fields but includes Product design, engineering, electronics and systems and control. Teaching is delivered through a combination of classroom instruction, practical workshops, and collaborative tasks, ensuring that students acquire both technical and creative skills. Resources and tools are carefully selected to support innovative learning, including CAD software, 3D printers, and prototyping materials. Assessment is both formative and summative, ensuring that students develop a robust understanding of the design process and can demonstrate their learning through project work, practical assessments, and examinations.
  • The impact of our Design & Technology curriculum is evident in the increased confidence, creativity, and problem-solving skills displayed by students as they learn and develop their awareness of the subject and how it plays a crucial part in the wider curriculum. The opportunities are there for students to leave with a deep understanding of how to approach complex problems and design effective solutions, using technology responsibly and sustainably. Students are equipped with transferable skills that can be applied in various industries or further education, with many going on to pursue careers in engineering, architecture, industrial design, and other related fields. Through their engagement with the curriculum, students also develop strong communication and teamwork abilities, preparing them for collaborative environments in both academic and professional settings. Ultimately, the Schemes of learning aims to do its part in influencing a generation of thoughtful innovators who are capable of inducing positive change in the world through their technological expertise.

Subject Information Sheets

Download curriculum overviews and subject information sheets for Design & Technology at each key stage.

Design & Technology Curriculum Progression Map
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Begin Your Design & Technology Journey

Discover how Design & Technology can shape your future — explore our curriculum from KS3 through to Sixth Form.

Contact the Design & Technology Department