Design Technology – Key Stage 4

Year 10-11

GCSE Design Technology

This is a new course starting in September 2017. During Year 10 pupils complete theory in the material areas of paper/board, timber, metal, plastic, textiles and systems and control. They complete numerous designs and make tasks in these material areas. Pupils will also study technical skills, manufacturing techniques and industrial processes related to each individual material area.

Some projects can be seen below:

During Year 11 they complete a non-examined assessment that contributes to 50% of their GCSE. This involves creating a design folder and manufacturing a product. They also take a written exam at the end of Year 11 that makes up the remaining 50%. Some projects can be seen below.

GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition

The new GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition is an exciting and creative course. The GCSE focuses on practical cooking skills to ensure students develop a thorough understanding of nutrition, food provenance and the working characteristics of food materials. This qualification aims to nurture the students’ practical cookery skills to give them a strong understanding of nutrition.

There is a single exam paper (1 hour 45 minutes) – 50% of the GCSE grade.

There are two non-exam assessments – 50% of the GCSE grade.

Food Investigation – 15%

Food Preparation Assessment – 35%

The focus is on practical cooking skills, an understanding of nutrition and the working characteristics of food.

The content is split into five sections:

  • Food, Nutrition and Health
  • Food Safety
  • Food Science
  • Food Provenance
  • Food Choice

Some projects can be seen below:

The Elton High School