The aim in this area is to
make products that incorporate electronic devices.
Students learn to prototype circuits using
‘breadboards’, to test circuits using computer
software (‘Crocodile Clips’) and then to design
printed circuits boards using PCB Wizard.
Students are taught a wide
range of construction techniques including PCB
manufacture and soldering, and much emphasis is placed
on industrial methods of production. A recent
development is the introduction of software and high
level programming languages to control PIC (peripheral
interface controllers) chips.
At Key Stage 3, students
follow the guidelines set by the National Curriculum
and are taught in mixed ability groups. Students are
taught in ‘carousel’ - they rotate between the
specialist teachers so that over 3 years they have
experience of all 5 areas of DT. At Key Stage 4, all
students choose one technology area to study at GCSE.
DT has always been a popular option at Sixth Form and
this year there is a wider selection of A-level
courses available.
