Design and Technology

At The Derby High School, our Design & Technology curriculum encourages creativity, problem-solving, and innovation. Students learn to design and make high-quality products for a range of users by combining practical skills with an understanding of materials, systems, and sustainability.

The curriculum develops technical competence through hands-on projects in textiles, timbers, polymers, electronics, and CAD/CAM, while building transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and critical thinking. Students are encouraged to make connections between design, science, engineering, and art, preparing them for further study and careers in STEM, creative industries, and beyond.

RESILIENCE Framework

R – Real World
E – Engaging & Enriching
S – Skills for Life
I – Inclusive
L – Leadership
I – Independence
E – Encourages Reflection
N – Next Steps
C – Challenge
E – Ethics & Empathy

KS2 National Curriculum Links

At Key Stage 2, students learn to:

Understand design criteria to help design purposeful, functional products.
Select from a wide range of tools to cut, shape, join and finish materials.
Apply understanding of how to strengthen complex structures.
Use mechanical and electronic systems in their work.

These skills are built upon and expanded across Key Stages 3 and 4 through increasingly complex design briefs, projects, and practical applications.

Post-16 Pathways (KS5 & Degree Level)

Product Design and Development
Engineering (Mechanical, Electronic, Materials Science)
Architecture
Plumbing and Electrical Installation

Career Pathways and Apprenticeships

Practical & Technical Careers

Carpentry and Joinery
Plumbing
Electrician
Engineering
Fashion Design

Related Professions and Transferable Skills

Surgeon
Dentist
Optician
Nurse
Marketing Specialist
Graphic Designer
Programmer / Software Engineer
Web Developer

Design and Technology Curriculum Map

How you can help your child in Key Stage Three:

Test them on their keywords for each project (vocabulary lists are on the front of the students' books).
Ensure they are engaging with current news relating to the climate crisis and global warming.
Quiz them on their knowledge of different materials.

How you can help your child in Key Stage Four (AQA):

Quiz them using the taboo cards or revision zines they have made in lessons.
Check in with their progress on their coursework on Microsoft Teams (beginning in June of Year 10).
Ask them to consider products around them and explain the manufacturing processes and life cycle analysis of these products.