Design & Technology

What is D&T? 

Design and Technology (D&T) is a creative and practical subject that has a strong focus on designing, making and solving real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts. Students will experience projects across 3D design (including resistant materials, graphics and product design), textiles and food preparation and nutrition throughout Key Stage 3. Students acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and skills, whilst providing the opportunity to apply knowledge gained in other subject disciplines such as mathematics, science and art. We are passionate about creating the next generation of creative thinkers, problem solvers, makers and innovators. 

Why do we teach D&T at HASU? 

Our intention is to inspire our students and allow them to become confident individuals with inquisitive minds, skills and the knowledge needed to thrive in the 21st century. The National Curriculum states that high-quality D&T education makes an essential contribution to the creativity, culture, wealth and wellbeing of the nation. 

Students develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world. They are introduced to developments in design and technology, its impact on individuals, society and the environment. D&T offers the unique aspect of learning to use specialist tools, techniques, processes, equipment and machinery precisely, including computer-aided manufacture. Students also learn how to apply the principles of nutrition and become competent in a range of cooking techniques so that they are able to feed themselves and others a healthy diet affordably, now and in later life. This enables students to take risks, become resourceful, be enterprising and capable citizens. 

How do we teach D&T at HASU at Key Stage 3? 

Throughout KS3 students will complete a series of D&T projects in units, including 3D design, textiles, and food preparation and nutrition. Across projects we build students’ technical knowledge; designing skills and development of ideas; practical skills and understanding of processes and techniques; and evaluative skills. Whilst this is the focus of learning, many of these projects result in physical outcomes and products which students are encouraged to take home. 

We have specialist learning spaces to facilitate this, such as the workshop equipped with tools and machinery; CAD suite with 3D printers and a laser cutter; textiles and graphics studio; and our large kitchen. This provides students with a professional working environment suited to the unique aspects of the subject. 

How do we teach D&T at HASU at Key Stage 4? 

Students will have the option of studying D&T at GCSE as part of our broad and balanced Key Stage 4 curriculum by specialising in either 3D design, Textiles or Food Preparation and Nutrition. 

In 3D design and Textiles, students develop their practice as designers and makers through a variety of projects each with a topic or theme and an externally set theme by the exam board. Within these projects students build a personal portfolio of creative responses and outcomes through experimentation of different mediums, materials and components, development and refinement of ideas, research of exciting designers and craft makers, as well as evaluating and self-assessment. 

Food Preparation and Nutrition equips students with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to cook and apply the principles of food science, nutrition and healthy eating. The layout of content promotes flexibility of delivery in the following areas: Food commodities, Principles of nutrition, Diet and good health, The science of food, Where food comes from, Cooking and food preparation. Students will complete a Food Investigation Assessment and Food Preparation Assessment as well as a written exam. 

What exam boards do we study at Key Stage 4? 

Students studying 3D Design at HASU follow the Pearson Edexcel Art and Design: Three-dimensional Design (1TD0) specification. 

Students studying Textiles at HASU follow the Pearson Edexcel Art and Design: Textile Design (1TE0) specification. 

Students studying Food Preparation and Nutrition at HASU follow the Eduqas specification.