Statement of intent

John Ferneley College is committed to delivering a Design Technology curriculum accessible to all which will allow students to become self-motivated and confident learners, who can work independently and as part of a team. We aim to ensure that learners develop technical and practical competencies as well as the wider skills valued by employers. Our main priority is for students to be problem solvers who are not afraid of making mistakes. We aim to ensure our students learn about the social and ethical responsibilities of designers and engineers, the importance of managing finite resources with care and to identify and analyse problems in order to become creative 21st century thinkers.

We hope our students will become responsible citizens who make a positive contribution to society.  

Areas covered:

• Health and safety  

• Tools and equipment – names and safe use  

• Materials – woods, metals, plastics and smart materials  

• Joining methods  

• Finishes and adhesives  

• Sustainability  

• CAD/CAM and ICT  

• The use of maths within D&T  

• Evaluating their own designs.  

• Series of mini-projects designed to further their making skills.  

Subject journey