In Technology and Design at Lumen Christi we empower and equip our pupils with the skills and knowledge to actively contribute to the technological world we live in. Through a diverse curriculum, we challenge our pupils to seek innovative ways of enhancing Technology and Design in society. 

We endeavour to help our pupils develop their creativity and technical ability through a wide selection of tasks and to provide opportunities for enquiry, initiative, ingenuity and resourcefulness when designing and manufacturing products. Technology and Design requires pupils to use a variety of materials, components and processes in the Design and Manufacture of products. It also offers pupils opportunities to experience the personal satisfaction and enjoyment of workshop practice. It instils in pupils the discipline of safe working practice. Pupils work both as individuals and in groups during their Technology Design lessons and we actively encourage pupils to support their peers in the class and to fulfil their own potential.
The use of ICT is an integral part of the work our pupils do. One of the packages we use is SolidWorks, a CAD (Computer Aided Design) programme which all pupils use to present their work at KS3, GCSE and A2.

Key Stage 3

KS3 Technology and Design pupils at Lumen Christi combine practical and technological skills with creative thinking to Design and Manufacture products and systems that meet human needs. The study and practices of Technology and Design help us in making sense of the world in terms of the practical issues of Design and their close relationship with the values of society and also in the consideration of how products enrich our lives.

Our students at Key Stage 3 have the opportunity to be involved in a number of Design and Manufacture tasks as well as the use of new technology including CAD (Computer Aided Design) and CAM (Computer Aided Manufacture).

Pupils learn to use current technologies to consider the impact of future technological developments. They learn to think creatively, solving problems as individuals and members of a team. KS3 pupils have 1 Double lesson of Technology & Design per week.

The Key Stage 3 curriculum is delivered through key projects each year; these are:

Year 8

  • Christmas Theme LED Display
  • Birdhouse Project
  • Graphics / CAD Project

Year 9

  • Night Light Project
  • Mobile Phone Holder Project
  • Graphics / CAD Project

Year 10

  • Litter Picker Project
  • Cross Project
  • Graphics / CAD Project

GCSE

The content at GCSE is a natural extension of the work already undertaken at Lumen Christi in KS3.

Students will undertake further work in all areas already studied in KS3 and will extend the range of machines and equipment they use, as well as improving their skills in the use of materials. They will also develop designing skills, sketching techniques and problem-solving scenarios.

The course offered is ‘CCEA GCSE Technology & Design with Electronic and Microelectronic Control Systems’ as our chosen specialism.

A Level

The aims of A-Level Technology and Design at Lumen Christi are to encourage creativity and innovation with a view to producing high quality products based on knowledge of technological processes and informed design. Technology and Design is an interdisciplinary subject which is designed to be student focused. Students should have a broad academic background and have both creative and practical skills. 

This specification gives students the opportunity to get involved in the world of Product Design.

The course offered is ‘CCEA GCE Technology & Design with Product Design’ as our chosen specialism. AS is worth 40% and A2 is worth 60% of the A-Level course.

Extra-curricular

Throughout the school year both teams and individual students are regularly entered for competitions which promote STEM. Pupils participate in STEM events regularly including careers workshops, presentations and visits to local companies. We also work closely with third level course providers and past pupils to give students access to STEM role models and an opportunity to learn more about the pathways available post-Secondary School. GCSE and A-Level students are also given the opportunity to enhance their coursework with dedicated assistance from both teachers in after school clubs.

The Royal Academy of Engineering Flagship Educational Programme ‘Connecting STEM Teachers’ also brings together a regional network of STEM teachers from across the country who work together to encourage young learners to study Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects in both Primary and Secondary schools. 

Where to next?

Career Possibilities 

The increase of Technology in society ensures that this subject will open up a wide range of career options, both academic and vocational. Technology and Design is one of the key STEM subjects and has many career opportunities including:  

  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Sports Technology
  • Graphic Designer
  • Computer Aided Design / Manufacture
  • Architecture
  • Quantity Surveyor
  • Technology and Design Teacher
  • Product Designer
  • Industrial Designer
  • Service Technician
  • Manufacturing Sector
  • Construction Sector

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