Students are given the opportunity to experience a range of subjects in Design and Technology at Ysgol Aberconwy. The department is well resourced with two laser cutters and three 3D printers as well as a full suite of traditional machinery and equipment.
Design and Technology is incorporated into Project Based Learning (PBL) for students in year 7.
Students in years 8 and 9 get to experience and work with different materials and types of design technology including resistant materials, textiles, food, computer and software design.
Within resistant materials, students will design and manufacture a range of products using a range of tools, equipment, machinery and materials. They will learn about the characteristics and working properties of wood, metal and plastics.
In food technology students will have the opportunity to cook a range of dishes whilst at the same time developing their organisation and team working skills and learning about safe and hygienic working practices.
In textiles, students will learn a range of techniques and develop new practical skills including the use of the sewing machines to make a range of creative products including bags and cushions.
Students will use a range of sophisticated equipment and software across the key stage to develop products using CAD/CAM across all the subject areas.
Design & Technology Product Design gives students the opportunity to develop their capacity to ‘Design & Make’ products that are innovative, meet the needs and wants of a client and to design and develop purposeful products. Learners will develop a core understanding of the relations between design, materials, manufacturing and marketing. The subject enables students to take a broad view of Design & Technology and to develop a wide range of skills, including working with others, thinking creatively, designing through CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and making quality products.
Careers in product design include product design, automotive design, animation, architecture, teaching, manufacturing, advertising, engineering, furniture design and project management.
You will learn how to prepare and cook food using the correct tools and equipment. You will also be introduced to the importance of health, safety and hygiene, menu planning, communication, food experimentation and the science behind foods. You will learn a wide range of practical skills to apply to coursework tasks.
At least one hour each week will be practically based. It is important that you are organised and able to bring ingredients to all practical lessons, as this work is an integral part of the course.
The lessons are usually fast and active but rewarding, in that you have achieved a good quality product at the end.
Careers in food and nutrition include: Catering/Restaurant Manager, Kitchen Manager and/or Supervisor, Hotel Manager, Environmental Health Officer, Health Promotion Specialist, Dietician, Conference and Banqueting Manager, Chef, Waiting On, Food Nutritionist.
For more information about these courses, please take a look at our Year 9 Options Booklet.