In the busy run up to the end of the Christmas terms, the Design and Technology Department managed to find time to take pupils on an exciting field trip. As part of their course, Sixth Form pupils study Product Design, and on Monday 12 December, a group of Year 12 and 13 pupils headed to Didcot to visit the workshop of designer David Harber. Thank you to Head of Design and Technology Mr Alex Hunt for the following report on an interesting and unusual visit:
‘On Monday, Year 12 and 13 Product Design students visited the studio and workshop of David Harber. David is a sculptor who creates stunning modern garden art, working in a variety of materials, such as stainless steel, stone and bronze. For 20 years, David has been designing and manufacturing sundials, water features and sculptures. They are sold all over the world, and exhibited regularly at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. David has just returned from the Middle East, where he has been commissioned to design and produce an installation for an airport.
David spoke to the students about his unconventional route into the business, driven by his passion for functional design. We were given talks by the sales teams, designers and the manufacturing team. The crucial link between client and designers was highlighted as hugely important when investing in expensive, bespoke pieces of engineering art. The trip finished with pupils being given the opportunity to get involved with some of the manufacturing processes in which they specialise. It was an eye-opening experience, allowing pupils to see what they’ve been learning in class in action.’