Design Technology

At Trinity we encourage students to realise that Design has the potential to solve problems and improve lives for all. We encourage creativity and ask students to observe and reflect upon the needs of the world, the common good and to design and make products that make a positive difference to the world around them.

We also encourage students to challenge accepted views of consumer culture and think about the impact they have upon the world and the positive difference they can make. We explore recycling, repair, re-designing to reduce waste and encourage discussion of the social and environmental impact of poor design and consumer society 

We support the development of student’s designs and making skills, in a range of materials recognising the value of each other’s ideas, working together to develop safe, effective practical skills, celebrating the ideas and achievements of each student. Students find the projects within the department challenging and rewarding. 

In years 7-9 students cover a wide range of materials, designing and making skills to develop a thorough understanding of how they can be used. This covers wood, metals, plastics, fabrics and electronics. Students also learn about food and healthy eating and explore a range of recipes to build skills and understanding of food and nutrition. 

Students have the option to specialise in one or more areas of Design Technology at GCSE. We offer GCSE courses in Design Technology (specialising in Product design) and Food Technology. 

The department is equipped with a wide range of computer aided design and manufacture facilities which allow students to gain experience of modern manufacturing technology alongside traditional hand crafts. Drawing skills, using woods, metals and fabrics are taught alongside computer aided design, laser cutting, 3d printing and modern manufacture. Throughout our courses we encourage students to explore and question the use of a wide range of materials and develop a personal style and confidence in their ability to design and make. 

What next? Careers with Design Technology  

There are a wide range of career pathways from the student of Design Technology including Fashion design, stage and costume design, Product Design, Architecture, Engineering, Manufacturing, Graphic design and advertising, Catering, food development and design, Design management, retail design and packaging, craft design (designer makers), furniture and interior design. Environmental design, civil engineering, material science and eco-design.