It stimulates both intellectual and creative abilities, and the application of Mathematics and information and communication technology (ICT). Importantly, D&T develops the personal qualities needed to complete a design project from initial ideas to finished product. For example, skills in communication, problem solving, and critical thinking.
There are amazing careers which naturally flow from studying D&T, such as Engineering, Architecture, Fashion Design, Product Design, Transport Design, Graphic Design, Media, Computer Aided Design, Aerospace and Maritime Design, to name just a few.
The opportunity to study D&T at KS 4 is a significant step; it brings pupils into contact with specialist teachers and to a wider range of technical resources. Pupils are taught how to work out their own ideas with greater technical precision, taking proper account of functional, economic, aesthetic and environmental factors. Design proposals can be developed and manufactured using computer aided machines and and a range of materials to develop products of quality.
Pupils will be shown how to structure and organize their work in a personal design folio which shows evidence of investigating, exploring ideas and making decisions. Designing skills will be developed through a range of techniques. Depending on the size of the design tasks, work may be carried out in teams.