Technology
The Design and Technology Department (Product Design)
Design and Technology at Bishop Douglass Catholic School provides students with opportunities to develop their creativity, practical skills, problem-solving abilities and understanding of the world around them. Students learn to design, make, evaluate and improve products, while developing skills that can be applied both in everyday life and in future education and employment.
Through practical and theoretical learning, students are encouraged to become independent, creative and resilient learners. We aim to develop students' confidence in using tools, equipment, materials and processes safely and effectively.
Key Stage 3
In KS3 students rotate through four key areas made up of Resistant Materials, Graphics, Food and Textiles. Projects are designed in conjunction with the design process consisting of a number of design and make tasks, including a focus on product analysis, design and development, and practical application through knowledge of materials. Lesson are engaging and exciting, comprising of a range of new technologies and allowing students autonomy over their own work and designs.
Key Stage 4
At KS4 we offer a number of two year courses dependent on your interest, including GCSE: Design and Technology. GCSE courses are made up of 50% controlled assessment, following the design process in a topic of your choice and 50% 2 hour Exam.
Students can also choose the Level 2 Vocational Award in Hospitality and Catering, equivalent to GCSE level. The course combines practical cooking skills with knowledge of nutrition, food safety, menu planning and the hospitality industry. 60% is assessed through controlled assessment, where students research and analyse a brief before planning, preparing and presenting a two-course meal with sides, followed by an evaluation. The remaining 40% is a 1 hour 20 minute examination.
Key Stage 5
A Level Product Design
A Level courses are made up of 60% Coursework, following the design process, in a focus area of your choice and 40% 2 hour Exam.
Selected Sixth Form students can study a Level 2 Hospitality course, equivalent to GCSE level. Students develop their understanding of the hospitality industry, the skills and roles within it, food safety, health and safety, and food preparation and cooking through a combination of theory and practical work.
Enrichment activities
After-school Cooking Club – Students can develop their cooking skills, experiment with new recipes and build confidence in the kitchen in a relaxed and creative environment.
Royal Lancaster Hotel Partnership – We have an ongoing partnership with the Royal Lancaster Hotel, providing Key Stage 4 and Sixth Form students with opportunities to visit the hotel, take part in activities and gain an insight into the hospitality industry and the range of careers available within it.
Educational Trips – Students have opportunities to visit relevant venues and organisations, helping them to connect their classroom learning with real-world applications.
External Chefs and Industry Professionals – We invite professional chefs and other industry specialists into school to work with students, demonstrate professional skills and share their experiences of working in the industry.
Career Talks and Experiences – Students have opportunities to hear directly from professionals working in hospitality, catering and related industries.
For further information please contact us via email - schooladmin@bishopdouglass.barnet.sch.uk