Design and technology is about understanding how products shape our lives. It teaches us the necessity to learn from historical design and plan for the future. Studying the subject helps pupils to understand environmental, moral and social issues and become innovators of products which may help society.

It is the aim of the department to provide an opportunity for students at all levels to develop and sustain an interest in Design and Technology, leading to a greater understanding and appreciation of how the subject impacts on their lives as individuals and on the environment in which they live. Students will be encouraged to cultivate their problem-solving skills by finding practical solutions to realistic and stimulating problems.

Whilst it is not the fundamental aim of the department to focus solely on producing professional designers and engineers of the future, it is recognised that for those who seek to pursue either of the disciplines, the department must encourage and support them in every way possible and assist them in realising and fulfilling their ambition.

The subject aims to prepare candidates to participate in tomorrow's rapidly changing society and calls for the candidates to become autonomous and creative problem solvers; as individuals and members of a team. They must look for needs, wants and opportunities and respond to them by developing a range of ideas and making products and systems. This specification combines practical skills with an understanding of aesthetics, social and environmental issues, function and industrial practices. Candidates reflect on and evaluate relevant present and past design and technology, its uses and effects.

The subject seeks to help candidates to become discriminating and informed users and innovators of products. It encourages candidates to think and intervene creatively to improve the quality of life for society.

It is the department's goal to generate and nurture an interest in the following -

• analysing and evaluating products and processes;
• engaging in focused tasks to develop and demonstrate techniques;
• engaging in strategies for developing ideas, planning and producing products;
• considering how past and present design and technology, relevant to a designing and making context, affects society;
• recognising the moral, cultural and environmental issues inherent in design and technology.

Students may study the subject from Key Stage 3 through to Advanced Level.

Contact Details: Head of Department: R G Rogers Contact:glynn.rogers@christcollegebrecon.com

Tel: 01874 615440
Department: 01874 615460