Station Road, Halmer End, Newcastle, Staffordshire, ST7 8AP
Part of Windsor Academy Trust
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Sir Thomas Boughey Academy
016A1211

Design & Technology

Overview

In the Design and Technology department, we bridge the gap between imagination and reality. Our curriculum is designed to transform students from passive users of products into innovative designers and engineers who consider the impact of their work on the world.

  • Key Stage 3 Overview (Years 7, 8 & 9): Pupils follow a dynamic rotation of projects that build the technical and creative confidence needed for Key Stage 4. Our curriculum moves from foundational drawing to advanced manufacturing:
    • Technical & CAD/CAM Skills: Students develop mastery in technical drawing before progressing to Computer-Aided Design (CAD). These digital designs are brought to life through Laser Cutting and 3D Printing technology.
    • Design Thinking: We introduce vital global concepts such as Sustainability and Inclusive Design, ensuring students design for a diverse world.
    • Core Projects: Students apply their skills to a range of high-quality products, including:
      • Anglepoise Lamps (Mechanisms)
      • Custom Pizza Cutters (Ergonomics)
      • Textile Bag Tags (Material properties)
      • Laser-cut Clocks (Graphic design and CAD)
      • Table Tennis Bats with bespoke carry bags (Product design and Textiles)

Key Stage 4: OCR Cambridge National Level 1/2 in Engineering Design

This qualification is for students who wish to dive into the process of how products are conceived, designed, and manufactured. Building on their KS3 experience with 3D printing and laser cutting, they develop high-level skills in dismantling existing products to understand engineering efficiency.

Qualification Assessment Overview

When do internal assessments (NEA) take place?

  • Unit R039: Communicating Designs (30%) – Completed in Year 10 (Autumn & Spring terms).
  • Unit R040: Design Evaluation and Modelling (30%) – Completed in Year 11 (Autumn term).

When do external assessments take place?

  • Unit R038: Principles of Engineering Design (40%) – This is a written exam. Students have the opportunity to sit this assessment in January and May of Year 11.

How Parents Can Support?

  • Sustainability at Home: Discuss the "6 Rs" (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Refuse, Rethink, Repair) with your child when looking at household packaging or broken items.
  • Digital Resources: Support your child’s independent learning through these expert sites:

Teaching staff

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