Year 10 GCSE Design and Technology students have taken the amount of coursework required to complete the subject in their stride, dedicating an entire day to the planning and manufacture of coursework products. In previous years, time has been spent across the year on creating coursework, which has proved time-consuming, and limits the amount of lessons spent learning the exam syllabus. Head of Design and Technology Mr Alex Hunt instigated a manufacturing day, which have become a staple of the subject’s calendar.
Pupils in Year 10 took Tuesday 6 June off timetabled lessons, in order to spend a whole day in the workshops to execute their coursework pieces. Having spent time in lessons on the design and production process for their chosen projects, pupils were raring to up tools and bring their 2D ideas to life. The day was designed to mimic a working day, with pupils arriving with a plan of manufacture for an uninterrupted session in the workshop. Projects vary hugely, with pupils incorporating electronics and computer aid manufacture, as well as a variety of manufacturing techniques. Experienced staff are on-hand to help with design, and ensuring that products are as ergonomic as possible.
Mr Hunt commented: ‘this is a great way for pupils to complete a big chunk of their work over the course of an intensive day working. It also means that we’ve freed up lesson time to complete design folders and concentrate on learning more of the GCSE course as we approach Year 11 and the examinations.’