Design and Technology

Students study the various technologies on offer for a minimum of 2 hours throughout years 7 and 8.  In Year 8 students can then opt for 1 or more technology.  A carousel system of study ensures that in years 7 and 8 all students study all technologies for a unit of work.

The technologies on offer at Staindrop include:

Electronics

Electronics plays a vital role as the basis for innovation in the field of emerging technologies.  Students learn skills including communication and problem solving.  The GCSE course includes students designing products  using the latest technology of programmable chips and interactive software.  Assessment is by a major project (60%) and final examination (40%).

Food

Food Technology provides a great start with the essential skills of life and can lead onto many careers.  In the GCSE course students learn about food and body health.  They learn how to use a variety of ingredients and a develop a diverse variety of cooking skills.  Large scale food manufacture is experienced at Darlington College and a trip to the Good Food Show at Birmingham NEC may be offered.

Methods of assessment are major project (60%) and final written examination (40%).

Graphic Design

The AQA Graphics Products GCSE provies entry into the creative world of problem solving for students.   It allows students to express themselves in non-resistant materials and ICT, producing solutions for the worlds of music, gaming, packaging, advertising, promotion film and animation.

Assessment of a major piece of coursework gives 60% and a written examination 40% of the overall marks.

Resistant Materials

The GCSE in Resistant Materials provides a practical approach to the skills students will require in later life.  There are opportunites to use CAD/CAM in developing ideas and manufacturing products. 

Assessment is carried on a major piece of coursework (60%) and by written examination (40%).  Early entry in Year 10 may be an option. 

Textiles

Textiles can open up a range of careers such as interior designer, fashion designer, textile engineer or teacher.  The GCSE course includes the use of CAD/CAM and smaller resources such as needles, dyes and batik wax.  Student develop skills for later life.

The method of assessment is a major project, 60% and a written examination, 40%.