Ark Kings Academy

At Ark Kings Academy, our DT curriculum is designed to achieve the following aims:

• Pupils become proficient designers through developing the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to perform everyday tasks confidently and to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world, as well as critique, evaluate and test ideas and products, and apply their understanding of the principles of nutrition
• Pupils solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values

Curriculum Aims: 

In the Secondary Phase Design Technology aims to ensure that all pupils develop creative, technical, and practical expertise to perform everyday tasks confidently. 

Pupils use their knowledge and understanding to design, make and evaluate. 

In Art and Design, Key Stage 3 pupils develop their textiles skills, underpinned by the design process of design, make, and evaluate. 

All pupils in Key stage 3 develop and practise their textiles skills in our Art Department. Pupils are taught how to design and create either a piece of bunting, using identity as a decorative theme, or, a pair of slippers using the theme of nature.   These projects include important skills, including hemming, applique, attaching buttons securely, embroidery, printing, batik, patchwork and various fabric manipulation techniques. 

Pupils become competent in selecting and preparing specialist tools for specific techniques during KS3, to prepare for a more independent approach as they progress to KS4.  At this time pupils have the opportunity to progress and experiment with the different techniques offered, leading to larger-scale textiles pieces using the sewing machines, making items such as shirts, jackets and dresses. 

The evaluative element of these projects allows for pupils to reflect on their work and enjoy a sense of achievement having created a unique piece of work.  

Pupils also have a Food and Nutrition Curriculum Block in Key stage 3. Students are taught how to cook and the principles of nutrition of healthy eating. They learn food hygiene, and cooking skills and prepare a healthy nutritious meal that fulfils a brief. Pupils spend time preparing and cooking a meal and then evaluating it. This prepares pupils for leading independent, healthy adult lives.