Key Stage 3
Subject: Design & Technology
At Key Stage 3, Design Technology introduces students to the fundamental principles of design, engineering, and technology. Pupils are encouraged to explore the design process, from initial concept development to prototype creation and final product evaluation. They gain practical experience in using a variety of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, fabrics, and electronic components and learn how to work safely with tools and equipment. The curriculum covers topics such as the use of sustainable materials, the impact of technological advancements, and the importance of innovation and creativity in solving real-world problems. Students also develop an understanding of manufacturing processes, CAD (Computer-Aided Design), and the application of systems and control in creating functional products.
What will I learn?
For years 7-9, a term by term list of what topics will be learned and what activities the pupils will be doing. Use the table template below.
| Year | What will I learn? | What will I do? |
| 7 | Electronics
Resistant Materials |
In Electronics you will learn about input, process and output components and include these components in a circuit. You will then build this circuit safely, using soft soldering techniques to produce a night light circuit, which will be housed in a case manufactured using the laser cutter. This process will not only teach you valuable technical skills in both electronics and design, but also give you the experience of taking a project from concept to finished product, blending creativity with engineering principles.
In Resistant Materials, pupils have the opportunity to design and create a functional clock using a variety of materials such as wood, plastic, and metal. Throughout this project, students develop essential skills in shaping, joining, and finishing resistant materials. They learn about the properties of different materials and how to select the most suitable ones for the specific functions of their clock. Pupils also explore techniques such as cutting, sanding, drilling, and applying finishes to ensure the product is both aesthetically appealing and durable. The project encourages students to consider the design process, from initial sketches and ideas to detailed planning and creating a prototype. |
| 8 | Graphics
Textiles
|
In Year 8, pupils step into the world of Graphic Design, where creativity and technology work hand in hand to bring ideas to life. Throughout this project, pupils design and manufacture a professional‑style product, working from a clear design brief and developing their ideas for a specific target audience. They learn how to design, model and create digital graphics using Adobe Fireworks 8 and 2D Design, before preparing their work for manufacture and producing their final outcome using the laser cutter and a range of hand tools. Alongside these practical skills, pupils explore key aspects of the design industry, including branding, prototyping, quality control, quality assurance and the role of legislation in manufacturing. By the end of the project, pupils will have taken an idea from initial concept to a fully realised product, gaining confidence, independence and valuable real‑world design skills along the way.
In Textiles, pupils are tasked with designing and making an “ugly doll,” a project that allows them to explore creative textile techniques and the design process. Students learn how to select and manipulate fabrics, considering factors like texture, colour, and durability. They develop key skills in hand sewing and machine stitching, learning how to join fabrics, add decorative details, and finish edges. Throughout the project, pupils also explore the concept of character design, developing their creativity by designing quirky, unconventional dolls with unique features. Students are encouraged to experiment with embellishments to give their dolls personality. |
| 9 | Electronics
Graphics
Textiles |
In Year 9, students refine their practical skills and deepen their understanding in preparation for the challenges of the GCSE curriculum, should they choose to pursue further study in this area.
In Electronics, students are tasked with constructing a sophisticated circuit that incorporates an integrated circuit (IC) alongside a variety of both off-board and on-board components. Throughout the project, they develop key technical abilities such as correctly wiring off-board components and mastering the essential skill of safely soldering to a printed circuit board (PCB). Once they have assembled their circuit, they are then encouraged to integrate it into a functional product of their own design, fostering both creativity and problem-solving skills.This hands-on approach not only builds confidence but also equips students with a solid foundation in electronics, setting them up for success in more advanced studies. In KS3 Technical Drawing, pupils are introduced to a wide range of drawing styles and techniques essential for communicating design ideas accurately and professionally. They learn to create clear, precise 2D and 3D drawings, including orthographic projections, isometric drawings, and perspective sketches. Students develop skills in using both hand-drawing tools, such as rulers, compasses, and protractors, as well as digital tools like CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software. The curriculum focuses on understanding scale, proportion, and dimensioning, enabling pupils to accurately represent objects and structures. Through various projects, pupils also explore the use of symbols, line types, and annotations, helping them present their designs in a universally understood format. This subject helps students improve their spatial awareness, attention to detail, and ability to translate ideas into technical drawings, which are essential skills in fields like engineering, architecture, and product design.
In our Year 9 Textiles course, students explore a variety of decorative techniques to develop their creativity and textile skills. They begin by experimenting with vibrant methods like tie dye, where they learn the art of creating patterns through fabric manipulation. Students also delve into applique, adding dimension and design by sewing fabric pieces onto a base. The course covers textile printing, where they get hands-on with creating unique designs on fabric, and weaving, which introduces them to traditional craftsmanship. Additionally, they explore rug making, gaining an understanding of different textures and techniques. Finally, students apply these skills to create a personalised cushion, allowing them to showcase their new abilities while expressing their individual style and flair. |
Co-Curricular Opportunities
Stem Club
How you can support your child’s progress
Supporting your child in Design & Technology (D&T) at KS3 can make a big difference to their confidence, creativity and problem-solving skills.
Parents can encourage practical skills at home by using simple tools with their child, safely supervised, such as screwdrivers, tape measures and hand drills and making simple repairs to clothes such as sewing on buttons.
Parents can Talk about design in everyday life to help students notice how things are designed and recognise the materials processes used. Parents can help develop creativity through exposure and experimentation such as visiting a design museum and watching design or engineering programmes.
Additionally we would also appreciate support with ensuring homework is complete, and bringing in the correct equipment such as pens, pencils, rulers and an apron so children are fully equipped to learn.
