Design & Technology
Technology Teaching Staff
- Mr B Hackland– Curriculum Leader of Design and Technology – Engineering
- Mr N Petchey – Teacher Design and Technology – Product Design
- Ms V Harmey – Teacher of Design and Technology - Hospitality & Catering
- Ms L Jones – Teacher of Design and Technology - Hospitality & Catering
- Ms J Rodgers – Teacher of Design and Technology - Hospitality & Catering
- Mrs A McCutcheon – Technician - Hospitality & Catering
- Miss S Butterfield – Technician – Design and Technology
Why Design & Technology is important
At Wey Valley Academy, the Design and Technology curriculum encompasses Product Design, Hospitality and Catering, and Engineering, providing students with a comprehensive and engaging educational experience. Design and Technology is vital as it equips students with essential skills that foster creativity, problem-solving abilities, and critical thinking, all of which are pivotal in navigating an increasingly complex world. Our approach assures that lessons are both practical and purposeful, thereby challenging students to achieve high professional standards and outcomes.
Teaching & Learning in Design and Technology
The teaching and learning approach is underpinned by a refined curriculum that utilises bespoke booklets, ensuring that students engage with the material in a structured manner. Through a hands-on learning philosophy, students specialise in 'learning by doing' across all disciplines - be it Engineering, Hospitality and Catering, or Product Design. This practical based learning is particularly prominent at Key Stage 3, where students begin to cultivate their skill sets and knowledge in preparation for the more advanced Key Stage 4 courses.
Key Stage 3
Our KS3 Design and Technology curriculum is designed to facilitate the application and development of student skills in alignment with professional standards and the national curriculum. This structured programme fosters progression through purposeful lessons that embody the principle of learning by doing. Students engage in a rotation system across key subjects, including Hospitality and Catering, Product Design, and Engineering, ensuring comprehensive skill acquisition and knowledge development throughout KS3. Our careful planning and curriculum supports all learners in their journey, empowering them to thrive in a dynamic and creative environment.
Key Stage 4
As students progress to KS4, they are presented with industry-inspired subjects that align with potential pathways into apprenticeships and further education. The curriculum is designed to cultivate and equip learners with professional skills that are highly regarded within the sectors of Hospitality and Catering, Engineering, and Product Design. This focus not only prepares students for future employment but also instils a sense of confidence and capability that will serve our students well in their professional journeys.
The KS4 curriculum for Educas Product Design, OCR Engineering, and WJEC Hospitality and Catering equips students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Each course integrates rigorous examinations and coursework components that align with professional standards, ensuring students are well-prepared for industry demands. Subject specialists deliver the curriculum, providing expertise that enhances student understanding and engagement. Examinations assess practical application and theoretical comprehension, while coursework enables creative exploration and problem-solving. Collectively, these courses foster an environment that nurtures ambition and critical thinking, preparing students for further education and employment in their chosen fields.
Extra-curricular opportunities
We enrich the student experience through a variety of extra-curricular activities. Our Year 7 students participate in STEM Day, while Design and Technology Club is held weekly. Additionally, we encourage engagement in national design competitions, fostering creativity and passion within our subject.
GCSE Specification
Educas Product Design - gcse-design-and-technology-specification.pdf (eduqas.co.uk)
OCR Engineering - Cambridge Nationals - Engineering Design Level 1/Level 2 - J822 - OCR
WJEC Hospitality and Catering - Level 1/2 Vocational Award in Hospitality and Catering (wjec.co.uk)