Design &
Technology
In Technology and Design, students will design and manufacture high quality products. Every design is influenced by outside factors such as client/consumer demand, the state of the market, customer expectations and consumer laws.
Students are given the opportunity to tackle design problems of their own choice and to explore and develop effective and innovative solutions. With the choice of control technology, environmental, materials, furniture, product and transport design and technology, to name just a few, the types of project produced by students are wide ranging.
At Key Stage 3, pupils gain practical and design skills through Resistant Materials projects such as a steady hand game, plane, coat hook, buggy and desktop fan. They develop both hand-drawn and CAD design skills, with numeracy and literacy embedded throughout. This programme prepares pupils for Key Stage 4 and introduces future career pathways in technology, design and engineering. As a discrete subject, Technology and Design challenges students to combine their knowledge and skills whilst developing their creativity and problem-solving skills.
The department is well equipped with a wide range of hand tools, power tools, traditional machinery and has recently invested in additional CAD/CAM equipment.
The staff in the department prepare the boys for future careers in a Technology, Engineering or Construction related field.
KS3
At Key Stage 3, pupils develop practical and design skills through Resistant Materials projects such as a steady hand game, plane, coat hook, buggy, and desktop fan. They learn to design by hand and build confidence in CAD.
We embed numeracy and literacy across all activities, ensuring strong cross-curricular links.
This programme prepares pupils for Key Stage 4 and introduces a range of career pathways in Technology, Design, Engineering and Construction.
KS4
At Key Stage 4, we offer GCSE Design & Technology, GCSE Motor Vehicle Road Users Studies (MRVUS) and Occupational Studies Construction Level 2.
GCSE Design and Technology
Pupils develop skills in design, manufacturing, vehicle safety and maintenance, and construction techniques, through a mix of theory and practical work.
Assessment includes written exams and controlled tasks, with enrichment such as industry visits and career guidance.
Occupational Studies Construction Level 2
The subject provides a course with flexible programmes rooted in practical and occupational contexts. Occupational Studies appeals to many of our Year 11 & 12 students, who are better suited to developing their skills in a more practical, occupationally orientated environment. It is an excellent subject, enjoyed by all who undertake it.
Occupational Studies (Construction) provides a hands-on approach to learning. What makes it different from other Technology based courses, is its focus on Bench Joinery and Carpentry knowledge, understanding and skills.
GCSE Motor Vehicle Road Users Studies (MRVUS)
Motor Vehicle and Road User Studies is a subject area where our students develop a wealth of relevant knowledge and practical skills, including a greater awareness of the motor vehicle itself and its systems.
It focuses on learning to drive in different conditions and coping with the unexpected. It deals with the various costs involved in running a car and raises broader issues of traffic management and pollution. It also looks at how best to avoid accidents and, if one does occur, what to do and how to limit the damage.
Progression
The KS4 programme supports progression to BTEC Level 3 Construction and Engineering, apprenticeships and careers in technology, design and the built environment.
KS5
At Key Stage 5, we offer BTEC Level 3 Construction and Engineering, providing a vocational route into the built environment and engineering sectors.
Engineering
Students will gain the core technical knowledge required to work in today’s exciting engineering industry and cover topics such as:
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the scientific principles used to identify the most suitable materials in a given engineering context
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mechanical engineering systems and components
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the process of engineering design.
Transferable skills are valued by employers and higher education alike. Throughout this two year course at La Salle, students should acquire the following transferable skills that have been contextualised into the content of this qualification:
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communication (oral and written)
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teamwork
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problem-solving.
Construction
At Level 3, the Construction and the Built Environment qualification gives our students the opportunity to acquire specialist knowledge and technical skills, enabling entry to an Apprenticeship, which is encouraged, other employment, or progression to related higher education courses.
There are units within this qualification that are suited to employer involvement, giving students the opportunity to learn outside of the classroom.
The course includes work experience, coursework, and preparation for two 12-hour synoptic assessments, ensuring strong practical and theoretical skills.
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Construction technology
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Health and safety
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Project management,
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Engineering principles following Pearson BTEC specifications
Assessment is through portfolio work and external exams, with enrichment such as industry placements and employer engagement.
Progression
This programme supports progression to HND courses, university degrees, apprenticeships, or employment in construction and related fields.
Extra-curricular
Our department runs after-school support clubs for CAD and manufacturing workshops for Key Stage 4 and 5 pupils. These sessions provide additional time to refine design skills, develop practical expertise, and complete coursework.
We also offer industry visits, employer-led workshops, and career guidance, helping pupils connect learning to real-world applications and raise aspirations.
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