Design and Technology

Manufacturing is more than just putting parts together. It’s coming up with ideas, testing principles and perfecting the engineering, as well as final assembly – James Dyson

Planning, designing, problem solving, and evaluating technical scenarios are core practices that contribute to the built environment that we live in and how that environment is sustained and innovated.

In Design & Technology at Kew House, students are provided with exciting and passion-fueled design and manufacturing experiences, energised by large, open-plan, bespoke studio spaces and cutting-edge technology, including: the industry standard CAD software, SolidWorks, a range of CNC equipment, laser cutter and multiple 3D printers – guided by teaching staff with over 20 years of industry experience, to prepare you for engineering and manufacturing within the technological world.

In Years 7 and 8, students adopt an iterative design process to lay the foundational knowledge, understanding and hands-on practical abilities across a range of projects. Covering the fundamentals of electronics, soldering, metal work, woodwork, and sublimation printing. Putting into practice, research, planning, and problem-solving abilities throughout, in preparation for GCSE in Year 9.

At GCSE stage, students will explore core technical practices and principles in greater depth, developing their planning and manufacturing confidence to be examined in an assessment made up of two equal parts:

• The NEA (non-exam assessment) consists of practical work supported by a 20 slide PowerPoint.
• A written paper assessing core and specialist technical principles and designing and making principles.

As 50% of the GCSE consists of a NEA, this course is ideal for students whose abilities are best showcased through practical work as opposed to written assessment. This component also provides students with a working prototype and a project portfolio – an essential door opening professional practice within the world of design and technology.

The A-level qualification (Product Design), provides essential pre-industry preparation, through building upon core practices and adapting to new advanced ones, concluded by a three-part examination process: two written papers and the non-exam assessment.

Alongside the enriching curriculum, the DT department runs a Formula 24 club, whereby students build, and then race, a kit car, a CAD club and a Skateboard making club, to expand upon technical and practical skills collected from workshops, in a fun, immersive and exciting way. In addition, trips and visits to exhibitions and workshops with industry specialists are provided during all years of study.

Career and higher educational opportunities for students who have obtained the Product Design qualification, are rich and varied. For example: Aerospace Engineer, Civil Engineer, Product Designer, Industrial Designer, Interior Designer, Fashion Designer, Games Designer, etc.  We are also proud to announce that we have alumni who have gone on to achieve Arkwright Engineering Scholarships, utilizing this highly transferable practice as a springboard into a prosperous career.