Technical
Introduction to the Technical Department
Unlike other departments Technical houses several different subjects under one roof.
- Engineering Skills for Work
- Engineering Science
- Design and Manufacture
- Practical Woodwork
- Practical Metalwork
These subjects are the provided from 4th year onwards and a Broad General Education is provided from S1-S3 and an Auto-Engineering Elective is available to take during S2.
S1
The first year Technical course is based on introducing pupils to a variety of subjects, skills and techniques within the department. They begin by learning What is Technology? to form a basis for the rest of the year. They experience the workshop for the first time via a Structures project which develops their knowledge in the Engineering Science arm of Technical whilst also affording them an introduction to health and safety and the safe use of tools in the workshop. This is a group task which allows them to develop their communication skills and learn to work with others to achieve a positive end result. Throughout the rest of the year they develop their Graphics knowledge through a Sketching unit, looking at Design and Manufacture through a Mechanical toy project which also furthers their engineering science knowledge, workshop experience and a more in depth knowledge of woods and where they come from. And finally learn about Electricity and how it works.
S2
Within the Technical Department the S2 curriculum is designed to expand the knowledge acquired during S1 through varied and engaging practical projects. This includes designing and manufacturing a metal wind vane which introduces the pupils to Engineering skills such as brazing metal. This is followed by an Electronics unit which covers simulated circuits and soldering. Skills within Graphic Communication are developed during a Desk Top Publication project which includes designing a DVD cover, and completing manual orthographic drawings. The course is concluded with the manufacture of a photo frame which is constructed from wood. Throughout the year the pupils further their knowledge of the Technical Curriculum whilst using tools and machines confidently and safely alongside their peers.
The S2 elective within the Technical Department comprises of an 18 week course in Auto Engineering based mainly in the Education Departments Garage. During this time the pupils undertake one unit from the Intermediate 1 Automotive Skills, Skills for Work course. In undertaking the course they will learn to use automotive tools, gaining an understanding of systems in a car and undertake some routine and specialist maintenance procedures. Health and Safety and Employability Skills are paramount and pupils are required to wear suitable PPE.
