As well as starting the theoretical part of the course, they have been working through a practical skills programme, building on skills learnt in years 7-9. They have also been improving their 3D drawing skills, and now they are ready to design and manufacture a product specifically for a target user and particular purpose. We are so proud of their progress and the work shown here gives us a good indication that students will have another successful year!

Mrs Ryde, Teacher of Design & Technology

A Year 10 student explains more about the Design Challenge:

In DT Textiles, we have been working on a Design Challenge. The aim is to design and manufacture  an item of soft storage inspired by ‘The Work of Others’. It needs to be created with a target user in mind, for example, a friend who needs to store art supplies and paintbrushes or a family member who travels frequently and needs a bag in which to store their toiletries.   

My sister's bathroom is extremely untidy, and it would benefit our whole family if she had a bag to store her toiletries in; so, I decided to design and make a washbag for her. With the target user and use decided, the next step was to measure the items the bag will hold and create a solution that fulfils her requirements. My sister is a big fan of Vivienne Westwood's style, and she is, therefore, the inspiration for my designs. In true Vivienne Westwood style, they are designed with bright colours and an 'orb' on the front. 

I've really enjoyed the DT GCSE course so far. The theory is very interesting - topics like ergonomics and material uses are very relevant to everyday life, while the practical side has enabled me to make small bags, cushions, and much more. This will be particularly handy during the Christmas holidays to make small gifts for friends and family. I’m looking forward to enhancing my making skills over the next 2 years! 

View the student's project below: