Our aim is to make Design and Technology the most relevant subject in the school curriculum.  A subject that enables students to apply what they learn in other subjects, particularly Maths and Science.  The Design and Technology department at Highfields School are committed to delivering a curriculum accessible to all, which provides the broadest possible range of opportunities for students. One 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 hope our students will become responsible citizens who make a positive contribution to society.

The department firmly believes that students learn best by ‘doing’ and by allowing them to experiment and take risks, in a safe and positive learning environment. This is achieved through imaginative teaching that embraces new technologies and resembles modern industrial processes, whilst retaining the best of traditional practices. At the heart of this, is the desire to deliver a curriculum in which students produce high quality outcomes. Students must learn about the social and ethical responsibilities of designers and engineers and the importance of managing finite resources with care.

As well as becoming confident Design and Technology students, the curriculum will enable them to develop a number of ‘soft’ skills including technical ability, problem solving, organisation, communication, creativity, analysis and discipline. 

Subject Curriculum Overview

• Design & Technology (KS3)

• GCSE Design & Technology (KS4)

• A Level Design & Technology (KS5)