Design & Technology | Burton Borough School

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Curriculum – Website
Department	Design and Technology
KS3 Intent	At Burton Borough School, our KS3 Design & Technology curriculum is crafted to ignite creativity, foster innovation, and build practical skills through a diverse range of design-and-make projects. Pupils explore textiles, product design, graphics, and resistant materials while developing a deep understanding of sustainability, cultural awareness, and technical processes. Creative Exploration & Practical Skill Building Through hands-on projects such as Ugly Dolls, clocks, treat machines, cultural cushions, jewellery, and rucksacks, students learn to: Use tools and machinery safely and confidently, including coping saws, tenon saws, disc sanders, pillar drills, and sewing machines. Apply key techniques such as tie dye, applique, embroidery, batik, and surface decoration to enhance their textile outcomes. Develop prototypes using drawing techniques like isometric and single-point perspective, and refine their ideas through iterative design. Textile Innovation & Sustainability Our textiles strand encourages students to explore both natural and synthetic fibres, understand the impact of fast fashion, and experiment with decorative techniques. Projects like Ugly Dolls and cultural cushions promote: Environmental awareness and ethical design choices. Technical textile knowledge including zips, pockets, templates, and finishing techniques. Quality assurance through peer feedback, evaluation, and redesign. Product Design & Engineering Principles In projects such as clocks and treat machines, students gain experience in: Workshop safety and tool handling. Material properties and manufacturing processes. Evaluating products for function, aesthetics, and sustainability. Visual Communication & Design Thinking Students develop their visual literacy and design communication through: Fashion illustration and technical drawing. Designing for a client and understanding user needs. Annotating designs and creating specifications that guide their making process. Cultural Awareness & Ethical Design Projects like cultural cushions and jewellery introduce students to: The work of others, including global patterns and print traditions. Environmental issues related to materials and production. Recycled materials and polymers such as HDPE, promoting responsible design. Assessment & Reflection Throughout KS3, students engage in: Peer and self-evaluation to improve outcomes. Multiple-choice assessments to consolidate technical knowledge. Final evaluations to reflect on their design journey and celebrate their achievements. Specification writing. Responding to extended examination questions Focused practical tasks
KS3 Implementation	At Burton Borough School, our KS3 Design & Technology curriculum is delivered through a structured and engaging rotation of practical projects that build progressively across Years 7, 8, and 9. Each unit is carefully designed to develop students’ creativity, technical knowledge, and problem-solving skills while embedding core principles of health and safety, sustainability, and cultural awareness. Year 7: Foundations in Textiles and Workshop Safety Students begin with the Ugly Dolls design-and-make project, introducing them to basic textile techniques such as: Hand sewing, applique, and embroidery Use of templates and components Understanding natural vs synthetic fibres Fast fashion and environmental impact They also engage in peer design activities and learn to evaluate and improve their final products through feedback and quality checks. In the Clocks project, students transition into the workshop environment, where they: Learn safe use of tools including coping saws, tenon saws, files, and disc sanders Operate machinery such as the pillar drill Apply finishing techniques and assemble clock mechanisms Begin to understand specifications and design constraints Year 8: Expanding Skills and Cultural Contexts The Treat Machines project reinforces workshop safety and introduces mechanical thinking and practical construction. Students refine their tool handling and explore creative design solutions. In the Cultural Cushions unit, students explore: The work of others through global patterns and prints Surface decoration techniques including batik and applique Functional textile features such as zips, pockets, and edge finishes Environmental issues and ethical design choices Evaluation and quality assurance processes Year 9: Advanced Design Thinking and Technical Application Students tackle more complex design challenges in the Drawing Techniques & Prototype unit, where they: Develop initial ideas for products like rucksacks Use isometric and single-point perspective drawings Create fashion illustrations and technical drawings Build and test prototypes against specifications Evaluate outcomes and reflect on client needs he Jewellery Design & Make project introduces students to: Contextual challenges and product research Veneered wood preparation and resin casting Use of recycled materials and HDPE polymers CAD techniques using 2D Design software Laser cutting and vacuum forming processes Final product evaluation and multiple-choice assessments Assessment & Feedback Unit assessment includes: Formative assessment through peer and self-evaluation Summative assessment via practical outcomes and written evaluations Multiple-choice quizzes to consolidate technical knowledge End-of-topic assessments to track progress and inform future learning
KS3 Impact	Our KS3 Design & Technology curriculum equips students with the creative confidence, technical fluency, and critical thinking skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving world. The impact of our curriculum is evident in the way students approach design challenges with curiosity, resilience, and a growing sense of independence. Practical Mastery & Technical Confidence By the end of KS3, students demonstrate: Proficiency in using a wide range of tools and machinery safely and effectively, including coping saws, pillar drills, sewing machines, and CAD software. Confidence in applying textile techniques such as applique, embroidery, batik, and tie dye to create high-quality outcomes. A strong understanding of materials, processes, and finishing techniques, enabling them to produce functional and aesthetically pleasing products. Creativity & Design Thinking Students develop the ability to: Generate original ideas through sketching, modelling, and fashion illustration. Refine their designs through peer feedback, iterative development, and evaluation. Respond to contextual challenges with empathy and innovation, designing for real users and purposes. Ethical Awareness & Sustainability Our curriculum fosters responsible designers who: Understand the environmental impact of materials and manufacturing, including fast fashion and polymer use. Make informed choices about natural and synthetic fibres, recycled materials, and sustainable production methods. Appreciate cultural influences in design, drawing inspiration from global patterns, prints, and traditions. Progression & Readiness for the Future Students leave KS3 with: A robust foundation for GCSE Design & Technology or other creative and technical pathways. A portfolio of practical work that showcases their skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. The ability to evaluate their own work and others’ with clarity and constructive insight. Assessment & Reflection Impact is measured through: Practical outcomes that meet design specifications and demonstrate craftsmanship. Written evaluations and multiple-choice assessments that consolidate technical knowledge. Ongoing peer and self-assessment that encourages reflection and continuous improvement Our KS3 Design & Technology curriculum empowers Burton Borough students to become thoughtful, skilled, and imaginative designers—ready to shape the future with purpose and passion.
KS3 Homework	Currently being redeveloped based on the new homework policy.
KS3 Enrichment
KS3 Careers	The KS3 Design & Technology curriculum at Burton Borough School lays the foundation for a wide range of exciting and future-focused careers. By developing skills in creativity, problem-solving, technical drawing, textiles, product design, and sustainability, students are well-prepared to pursue pathways in both academic and vocational sectors. Textiles & Fashion Careers Fashion Designer – creating clothing and accessories for brands or bespoke clients Textile Technologist – developing innovative fabrics and sustainable materials Costume Designer – designing for theatre, film, and television Apparel Product Developer – managing the lifecycle of clothing products from concept to production Embroidery or Surface Decoration Specialist – working in bespoke design studios or luxury fashion Product Design & Engineering Careers Product Designer – designing everyday items, furniture, or consumer electronics Mechanical Engineer – applying design principles to machines and systems Industrial Designer – combining aesthetics and function in mass-produced goods CAD Technician – using software to model and prototype products Design Engineer – solving technical problems through creative design Creative & Visual Communication Careers Graphic Designer – creating visual content for print, digital, and branding Illustrator – working in publishing, advertising, or fashion Set Designer – designing environments for film, theatre, or exhibitions Fashion Illustrator – visualising garments and collections for designers and magazines Sustainability & Ethical Design Careers Sustainable Product Developer – designing eco-friendly alternatives to traditional products Environmental Consultant (Design Focus) – advising on materials and processes in design industries Circular Economy Specialist – helping companies reduce waste and reuse materials Innovation & Technology Careers Design & Technology Teacher – inspiring the next generation of makers and thinkers Entrepreneur – launching your own product or fashion line Resin Artist or Maker – creating jewellery, homeware, or art using recycled materials Laser Cutting Technician – working in digital fabrication labs or manufacturing
KS4 intent	At Burton Borough School, our Design and Technology curriculum is built to inspire creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. Rooted in the AQA GCSE specification, our intent is to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills to design and make products that are functional, sustainable, and user-focused—preparing them for the challenges of a rapidly evolving technological world. Aims Foster creativity and curiosity by encouraging students to explore materials, processes, and emerging technologies. Develop technical knowledge in areas such as electronics, mechanisms, materials science, and computer-aided design (CAD). Promote responsible design by embedding sustainability, ethics, and user needs into every project. Build resilience and independence through iterative design, testing, and evaluation. Prepare students for future careers in engineering, architecture, product design, and manufacturing. What Students Will Learn: Core technical principles including properties of materials, forces, and energy. Designing and making principles: from identifying user needs to prototyping and evaluating. Specialist knowledge in a chosen material area (e.g., woods, metals, polymers, textiles). How to use tools, machinery, and digital technologies safely and effectively. The impact of design on society, the environment, and the economy. Our Vision: We believe that Design and Technology is more than making—it’s about thinking differently, solving real-world problems, and shaping the future. Through a dynamic blend of theory and hands-on experience, our curriculum empowers students to become confident designers, critical thinkers, and responsible innovators.
KS4 implementation	Our Design and Technology curriculum is delivered through a dynamic and structured programme that blends creativity with technical precision. Following the AQA GCSE specification, we ensure students develop a deep understanding of design principles, material properties, and manufacturing processes, while applying their knowledge to solve real-world problems. How We Teach: The curriculum is sequenced to build from foundational knowledge in Year 10 to advanced design and making skills in Year 11. Students explore a wide range of materials including woods, metals, polymers, textiles, and electronic systems. Core principles such as sustainability, ergonomics, and user-centred design are embedded throughout. CAD/CAM technologies are integrated into projects to reflect modern industry practices. Students undertake a major design and make project (NEA), applying iterative design processes and evaluating outcomes. Practical and Theoretical Balance: Lessons combine hands-on workshop activities with classroom-based theory. Students learn to analyse existing products, conduct user research, and develop design specifications. Regular opportunities for sketching, modelling, and prototyping help students refine their ideas and build confidence. Assessment and Feedback: Assessment includes a written exam (50%) and a Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) design project (50%). Students receive regular feedback through peer critique, teacher assessment, and self-reflection. Progress is tracked through design portfolios, practical outcomes, and knowledge checks.
KS4 Impact	At Burton Borough School, the impact of our Design and Technology curriculum is seen in the creativity, independence, and technical skill our students develop. By the end of the course, learners are confident in applying design thinking to solve problems and are well-prepared for further study or careers in design, engineering, and manufacturing. Outcomes for Students: Strong technical knowledge: Students understand materials, processes, and design principles with clarity and confidence. High-quality design work: Portfolios and prototypes reflect innovation, precision, and thoughtful user-centred design. Career readiness: Pupils gain insight into roles such as product designer, architect, engineer, and technician. Personal growth: Students develop resilience, creativity, and problem-solving skills that benefit them across all subjects.
KS4 Homework	A thirty-minute homework based on recall and examination practice will be set weekly.
KS4 Enrichment	Weekly intervention sessions for students
KS4 Careers	The AQA GCSE Design and Technology at Burton Borough School opens up a wide range of exciting and future-focused career pathways. It’s a subject that blends creativity, engineering, and problem-solving—perfect for students who want to shape the world around them. Engineering and Manufacturing Mechanical Engineer Civil Engineer Product Design Engineer Automotive Engineer Aerospace Technician CAD Technician These roles involve designing, testing, and improving products, systems, and infrastructure using technical knowledge and creative thinking. Design and Innovation Industrial/Product Designer Furniture Designer Packaging Designer UX/UI Designer 3D Modeller Design Consultant These careers focus on creating user-friendly, sustainable, and visually appealing products and experiences. Architecture and Construction Architect Interior Designer Landscape Architect Construction Manager Surveyor Design and Technology provides a strong foundation in spatial awareness, materials, and structural thinking—key skills in built environment careers Creative Industries Graphic Designer Set Designer Fashion Designer Jewellery Maker Art Director Students with a flair for aesthetics and innovation can thrive in roles that combine design with storytelling and branding Digital and Emerging Technologies Robotics Engineer Smart Product Developer Sustainable Technology Specialist Wearable Tech Designer As technology evolves, D&T students are well-placed to lead in fields that merge design with digital innovation. Education and Research Design and Technology Teacher STEM Outreach Coordinator Materials Researcher Education Technologist These roles involve sharing knowledge, developing new ideas, and inspiring the next generation of designers and engineers. This GCSE also supports progression to A-levels in Design and Technology, Engineering, Product Design, or Art & Design, as well as vocational routes like T Levels and apprenticeships in manufacturing, construction, and digital design.

Curriculum – Website
Department	Food Technology
KS3 Intent	At Burton Borough School, our KS3 Food Technology curriculum is designed to equip students with essential life skills, a deep understanding of nutrition, and the confidence to cook and create with purpose. We believe that food education is not only about preparing meals—it’s about fostering independence, promoting health, and exploring the science and culture behind what we eat.
KS3 Implementation	At Burton Borough School, our KS3 Food Technology curriculum is delivered through a carefully sequenced programme that blends practical cooking experiences with theoretical knowledge. Lessons are designed to be inclusive, engaging, and accessible to all learners, with a strong emphasis on developing essential life skills, scientific understanding, and cultural awareness. Sequenced Learning The curriculum is structured to build progressively from basic food preparation and safety to more advanced culinary techniques and food science. Students begin with foundational skills such as knife safety, hygiene, and simple recipes, before moving on to more complex dishes and scientific concepts like heat transfer, gelation, and the functions of ingredients. Practical Application Pupils regularly engage in hands-on cooking tasks including breakfast wraps, smoothies, carbonara, risotto, chilli, curry, stir fry, stuffed peppers, mac and cheese, Swiss rolls, shortbread, cookies, cheesecake, and scones. These experiences are supported by design-and-make projects, sensory evaluations, and structured reflections to deepen understanding and encourage creativity. Integrated Theory and Science Alongside practical work, students explore key concepts such as macro nutrients, digestion, food poisoning bacteria, microorganisms, and types of raising agents. Lessons incorporate scientific enquiry and real-world applications to help learners understand how and why food behaves the way it does. Focus on Safety and Responsibility Food safety is embedded throughout the curriculum, with dedicated lessons on cross-contamination, temperature control, safety, and food storage. Pupils learn to apply these principles consistently in all practical tasks. Cultural and Ethical Awareness Students investigate food origins (grown, caught, reared), global cuisines, special diets, allergies, and the environmental impact of packaging and food marketing. These topics promote critical thinking and encourage responsible consumer habits. Assessment and Feedback Learning is assessed through a combination of practical outcomes, written evaluations, quizzes, peer reviews, and teacher feedback. Pupils are encouraged to reflect on their progress, set goals, and take pride in their achievements
KS3 Impact	The impact of our KS3 Food Technology curriculum is evident in the confidence, competence, and curiosity our students demonstrate in the kitchen and beyond. Through a rich blend of practical experiences and theoretical understanding, pupils leave Key Stage 3 equipped with the knowledge and skills to make informed, healthy, and sustainable food choices. What Our Students Achieve Confident and Independent Learners Pupils develop a wide repertoire of practical skills, enabling them to prepare a variety of dishes safely and independently. They understand key cooking methods, knife techniques, and food preparation processes, and can apply these confidently in real-life contexts. Informed Decision-Makers Students gain a strong understanding of nutrition, macro nutrients, digestion, and special diets. They are able to evaluate food labels, portion sizes, and packaging, and make choices that support their health and wellbeing. Safe and Responsible Practitioners Learners consistently apply food safety principles, including hygiene, temperature control, and awareness of food poisoning bacteria. They understand the importance of cross-contamination prevention and electrical safety, and demonstrate responsibility in all practical tasks. Scientifically Literate Pupils can explain the functions of ingredients, types of raising agents, and processes such as gelation and heat transfer. They understand how food behaves during preparation and cooking, and can apply this knowledge to improve outcomes and solve problems. Reflective and Analytical Thinkers Through regular evaluations and sensory analysis, students learn to assess their own work, identify strengths and areas for improvement, and refine their techniques. They take pride in their progress and are motivated to achieve high standards. Culturally Aware and Environmentally Conscious Learners explore global cuisines, food origins, and the environmental impact of food production and packaging. They understand the role of marketing and consumer behaviour, and are encouraged to think critically about sustainability and ethical food choices. By the end of KS3, our students are well-prepared for further study in Food Preparation and Nutrition. More importantly, they carry forward essential life skills, a passion for cooking, and a thoughtful approach to food that will benefit them for life.
KS3 Homework	Students are expected to watch the demonstration videos prior to each practical lesson.
KS3 Enrichment	Students are encouraged to take part in the Rotary Cub Young Chef of the Year Competition within school.
KS3 Careers	Our KS3 Food Technology curriculum is more than just cooking—it’s a gateway to a wide range of career pathways. By combining practical skills, scientific knowledge, and cultural awareness, students develop competencies that are highly valued across the food industry and beyond. Practical Competence: Students learn to prepare a variety of dishes using professional techniques such as knife skills, heat control, and food presentation. These are essential for careers in catering, hospitality, and food production. Food Safety and Hygiene: Pupils are trained in industry-standard safety practices, including temperature control, cross-contamination prevention, and allergen awareness—critical for roles in food service, health inspection, and nutrition. Scientific Understanding: Exploring food science topics like microorganisms, gelation, and ingredient functionality prepares students for further study in food technology, nutrition, or even biomedical sciences. Evaluation and Quality Control: Sensory analysis and structured evaluations mirror real-world quality assurance processes used in food manufacturing, product development, and marketing. Cultural and Ethical Awareness: Understanding global cuisines, sustainability, and food origins supports careers in food journalism, international hospitality, and ethical sourcing. Communication and Teamwork: Collaborative cooking tasks and peer evaluations build interpersonal skills vital for customer service, event planning, and team-based environments.
KS3 Curriculum Map	Food curriculum website.xlsx
KS4 intent	Our Food Preparation and Nutrition curriculum is designed to inspire and equip students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make informed decisions about food and nutrition. Grounded in the EDUQAS GCSE specification, our intent is to foster a deep understanding of the scientific principles behind food preparation, the impact of diet on health, and the cultural significance of food in society. Our Aims: Empower students to become competent and creative cooks, capable of preparing nutritious meals safely and independently. Develop critical understanding of nutrition, food provenance, and the working characteristics of ingredients. Promote healthy lifestyles by exploring the relationship between diet and well-being, encouraging lifelong habits of healthy eating. Encourage curiosity and innovation through practical food experiments and sensory analysis, linking theory to real-world application. Support academic achievement by embedding scientific, geographical, and ethical perspectives into food education. What Students Will Learn: The principles of nutrition and health, including dietary needs across life stages. The science of food: cooking methods, functional and chemical properties of ingredients. Food safety and hygiene practices in domestic and commercial settings. The environmental, ethical, and cultural influences on food choices. Practical skills in planning, preparing, and presenting a wide range of dishes.
KS4 implementation	Our Food Preparation and Nutrition curriculum is delivered through a carefully sequenced and engaging programme that blends theoretical knowledge with practical application. Following the EDUQAS GCSE specification, we ensure that students build a secure foundation in food science, nutrition, and culinary skills, progressively deepening their understanding throughout Key Stage 4.
KS4 Impact	The impact of our Food Preparation and Nutrition curriculum is evident in the confidence, competence, and curiosity our students demonstrate in both the kitchen and the classroom. By the end of the course, learners are equipped with the knowledge and practical skills to make informed choices about food, health, and sustainability—empowering them for life beyond GCSE. What Success Looks Like: Secure subject knowledge: Students can articulate key concepts in nutrition, food science, and provenance with clarity and accuracy. High-quality outcomes: Practical work reflects precision, creativity, and an understanding of diverse dietary needs and cooking techniques. Exam readiness: Learners are well-prepared for both the written exam and Non-Exam Assessment (NEA), showing resilience and independence in their approach. Healthy habits: Pupils demonstrate an awareness of how food choices affect physical and mental well-being, applying this knowledge to their own lives. Career and life skills: Students leave with transferable skills in planning, budgeting, teamwork, and problem-solving—valuable for future study, employment, and everyday living. Progress is assessed through regular assessments including examination questions, written assessments and practical assessments.
KS4 Homework	Students receive at least thirty minutes of homework every week. This includes exam questions, recall tasks, research and SENECA.
KS4 Enrichment	The department offers weekly intervention. Students are encouraged to take part in the Rotary Young Chef of the Year competition.
KS4 Careers	The EDUQAS Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE opens doors to a wide range of exciting and rewarding careers across the food, health, hospitality, and science sectors. The EDUQAS Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE opens doors to a wide range of exciting and rewarding careers across the food, health, hospitality, and science sectors. Culinary and Hospitality Careers Chef (e.g., pastry chef, sous chef, executive chef) Catering Manager Food Stylist Restaurant Manager Event Planner (specialising in food service) Food Science and Technology Food Technologist Product Development Scientist Quality Assurance Technician Sensory Analyst Food Safety Inspector Health and Nutrition Nutritionist Dietitian Public Health Advisor Health Promotion Specialist Sports Nutrition Consultant Sustainability and Food Systems Environmental Health Officer Food Policy Analyst Sustainable Food Campaigner Agricultural Advisor Education and Communication Food Teacher or Lecturer Food Writer or Blogger Cookbook Author Food Photographer TV Presenter in Food Media Business and Retail Food Buyer Product Marketing Executive Retail Manager (Food Sector) Entrepreneur (e.g., launching a food brand or catering business) This GCSE also lays a strong foundation for further study in subjects like Food Science, Nutrition, Hospitality, Biology, Chemistry, and Health & Social Care. Whether you're passionate about cooking, curious about food science, or driven to improve public health, this qualification is a powerful first step.
KS4 Curriculum Map	Food curriculum website.xlsx

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