Three-Dimensional Design

The Three-Dimensional Design workshop and CAD (Computer Aided Design) suite features the most up-to-date workshop machinery, tools and CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) equipment, including a laser cutter, 3D printer and CNC router.

KS3 (Years 7-9)

In Year 7, pupils receive an introduction to Three-Dimensional Design. This includes a Health and Safety workshop induction, using timbers and polymers as the focus materials. Additionally, pupils will develop their graphic communication skills, including the use of CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Manufacture), as well as subject knowledge.

Year 8 introduces electronic textiles (e-textiles) and user-centred design. Pupils will continue to develop their subject knowledge through the use of individual and group-led projects.

Lessons in Year 9 focus on further developing pupils’ design communication skills, model making and working with metals.

KS4 (Years 10-11)

At Key Stage 4, pupils follow the OCR GCSE specification for Three-Dimensional Design. In Year 10, pupils spend the first two terms developing their design, CAD/CAM and practical skills, building upon their Key Stage 3 experiences, looking at product designers and architects for inspiration. After Easter, pupils will start their NEA (Non-Exam Assessment Coursework) Portfolio. In Year 11, pupils complete their NEA by Christmas, and begin their exam prep in readiness for the 10-hour exam after the Easter holidays. Previous projects have included lighting, storage, architectural design, furniture design, jewellery and product design. Pupils can use a range of materials including polymers, timber (natural and man-made), metal, plaster, concrete and glass (stained-glass and glass-fusing).

Beyond the Classroom

We run a variety of lunchtime and after-school D&T clubs each term. These range from our very popular textiles club (hand and machine sewing), CAD/CAM club (using CorelDRAW and the laser cutter), as well as workshop-based clubs such as our new metal and glass club (cold-forming metal and glass fusing).

For GCSE, there is an ‘open workshop’ session, allowing pupils to focus on developing their design and making skills for their coursework. Each year, we take the GCSE students on a cultural research trip to visit the many London museums on our doorstep.