DT class

Design and Technology

At Palmers Green High School, we are well aware that STEAM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Maths) are extremely important for life skills and enhance access to further education and employment. We are fortunate to have a well-equipped professional workshop, led by a subject specialist teacher. Through the study of Design and Technology we encourage our pupils to look to the future and to be creative and innovative. PGHS pupils value, enjoy and are motivated by the subject. Hands-on, practical projects in Design and Technology enable pupils to develop an enterprising attitude and to use their knowledge to solve problems in relevant real-life contexts, whilst at the same time developing their analytical, creative and practical skills.

“I consider D&T to be unique in the school curriculum. The level of practical project work D&T offers is rarely seen in other popular subjects. I see this as helping to build invaluable ’employability skills’, such as problem solving, communication and presentation skills.”

Kate Bellingham, Engineer, TV presenter and president of Young Engineers

Curriculum

The Design and Technology syllabus includes the subject areas of resistant materials, electronic products and product design. These topics enable pupils to realise the relevance of their STEAM knowledge and to apply this knowledge in order to solve problems and create practical solutions.

In Years 7 and 8, pupils research, design, make and evaluate their own products. As an individual or as a member of a team they learn to make design decisions that matter to product users and are applicable to the wider world. From Year 9 onwards pupils may opt to participate in extra-curricular study which provides opportunities to build a portfolio of experience to take forward to sixth form.