Design & Technology

Staff

  • Mark O’Donnelly – Principal Teacher
  • Katie Bacon

News

Introduction to the Design & Technology Department

The Design and Technology Department is a creative and practical hub that empowers individuals to understand the interplay between design, technology, and manufacturing. It offers opportunities for students or professionals to develop the critical thinking and technical skills needed to create innovative products and systems that respond to the evolving needs of society. Whether the focus is on product design, engineering, sustainability, or digital technologies, the department plays an essential role in shaping the next generation of innovators, designers, and technologists.

S1-S3 BGE

The S1-S3 Design and Technology course at BGE is designed to be an engaging and practical introduction to the world of design, technology, and engineering. Students learn by doing—developing key skills in creative design, material science, digital technologies, and problem-solving. They are encouraged to think critically, work collaboratively, and approach challenges with a focus on innovation and sustainability. These foundational skills will set them up for success in more advanced courses in Design and Technology

The primary aim of the S1-S2 curriculum is to ensure that pupils have a clear understanding of the subjects we offer, empowering them to make informed choices when selecting their specialisation at the end of S2. At this stage, students can choose to focus on Graphic Communication, Practical Woodworking and Design & Manufacture.

In S3, pupils specialised curriculum, dedicating three periods a week to their chosen subject. This year is pivotal in preparing students for National qualifications, with a project-based approach to learning.

Senior School

  • Graphic Communication: The course provides opportunities for candidates to gain skills in reading, interpreting and creating graphic communications. They also learn to apply knowledge and understanding of graphic communication standards, protocols and conventions. The course is practical, exploratory and experiential in nature and combines elements of recognised professional standards for graphic communication, partnered with graphic design creativity and visual impact.
  • Practical Woodworking: The National 5 Practical Woodworking course provides opportunities for candidates to gain a range of theoretical and practical woodworking skills relating to tools, equipment, processes and materials. They also develop skills in reading and interpreting working drawings and related documents as well as an understanding of health and safety. The course is practical, exploratory and experiential in nature. It engages candidates with technologies, allowing them to consider the impact that practical technologies have on our environment and society.
  • Design and Manufacture: The main purpose of the course is to allow candidates to develop the skills and knowledge associated with designing and manufacturing. The course enables candidates to develop skills in designing and manufacturing models, prototypes and products. Develop their knowledge and understanding of manufacturing processes and  gain an understanding of the impact of design and manufacturing technologies on our environment and society.

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