Facilities
The Design Technology department comprises two fully equipped workshops and one 'dry' graphics room with integral ICT suite. The graphics room is equipped with 16 networked computers, one Roland EGX300 CAD/CAM machine, one Roland MDX40 CAD/CAM machine, A3 printer, A3 scanner, photocopier and an overhead projector system. Several specialist DT programmes are available including both 2D and 3D CAD programmes. Workshops are also equipped with a full range of hand and machine tools.
Enrichment Activities
A range of activities are provided to stimulate an interest in Design and Technology. These
range from whole day, in-house ‘Design and Make’ activities in Years 7-9 to a variety of trips - both one day and residential – for all years. In July 2011 the Department ran a trip to China to look at the issues of modern manufacturing on a global level.
Year 7-9 Curriculum
This is an exciting, progressive and practical course in which pupils design and make a variety of moving and static models using both compliant and resistant materials. The majority of the subject is taught through project work, during which girls gain knowledge and experience with a variety of materials, tools, machines, techniques and manufacturing processes.
Pupils complete a variety of projects each year. These range
from a Pen design and a Mechanical Toy project in Year 7, through a Jewellery Making and a Lamp Shade project at Year 8, culminating in an Interior Design and Multi-Media Clock at Year 9. In all projects pupils are encouraged to experiment with different materials and techniques where applicable to widen their design horizons.
Year 10-11 Curriculum
At GCSE level pupils follow the AQA GCSE Product Design Specification 4555.
This specification allows candidates to specialise in the focus area of Product Design where they learn about a range of materials, manufacturing processes, techniques and technologies and are able to use them as appropriate in the design and make process.
The Assessment Objectives cover areas such as materials & 
components, processes & techniques and industrial practices (particularly CAD/CAM). Pupils will consider the influence of past and present design and technology on society in addition to examining the wider effects of design and technology on present day society.