Key Stage 4

Key Stage 4: Years 10 to 11 (14-16 years old)

The study of design and technology seeks to prepare students to participate confidently and successfully in an increasingly technological world; and be aware of, and learn from, wider influences on design and technology, including historical, social/cultural, environmental and economic factors. GCSE design and technology specifications must enable students to work creatively when designing and making and apply technical and practical expertise, in order to:

demonstrate their understanding that all design and technological activity takes place within contexts that influence the outcomes of design practice
develop realistic design proposals as a result of the exploration of design opportunities and users’ needs, wants and values.
use imagination, experimentation and combine ideas when designing
develop the skills to critique and refine their own ideas whilst designing and making.
communicate their design ideas and decisions using different media and techniques, as appropriate for different audiences at key points in their designing.
develop decision making skills, including the planning and organisation of time and resources when managing their own project work.
develop a broad knowledge of materials, components and technologies and practical skills to develop high quality, imaginative and functional prototypes.
be ambitious and open to explore and take design risks in order to stretch the development of design proposals, avoiding clichéd or stereotypical responses.
consider the costs, commercial viability and marketing of products,
demonstrate safe working practices in design and technology,
use key design and technology terminology including those related to: designing, innovation and communication; materials and technologies; making, manufacture and production; critiquing, values and ethics.