In Design and Technology, SMSC is delivered as a central part of our teaching and curriculum. The subject content naturally teaches students to reflect on the world around them and we always aim to bring and sense of interest and awareness of the wider world in our teaching. An example of this is in Key Stage 3, students explore the work of existing designers and look at new ideas and technologies such as biomimicry, smart materials and technical textiles which can all be used to promote creative thinking and encourage students to think alternatively from the stereo typical responses that they are more familiar with. It also makes them aware of different cultures and ideas that are often unlike their own.

In KS3 and KS4 students are required to produce new design ideas for users other than themselves which requires them to think creatively and to also consider the needs, values and viewpoints of others. In the Yr8 Inclusive Design project students design a product that will help users with varying impairments to independently access everyday tasks. This involves students conducting research to help them to understand the needs and feelings of different groups, whilst sensitively developing solutions that meet their requirements. Within these design and make tasks pupils are also given the opportunity to reflect on their solutions and consider other ways they could make their work better. As well as considering the needs of the primary user we also teach students to reflect on the cultural or environmental impact that a product or design may have during its lifecycle. Through product analysis students are encouraged to question the how a product is made, where a product comes from and whether a product has a positive impact or not. This is aimed at encouraging students to become reflective and conscientious consumers and to think about their product choices and how it may impact on the world around them. In KS4 students learn about globalisation, manufacturing methods and obsolescence which promotes debate about moral and ethical issues and often challenges cultural stereotypes, such as clothing being manufactured overseas because of cheap labour rather than the high skill set in that country. When possible we aim to link our teaching with ‘real world’ contexts through the use of current newspaper articles or news clips, for example the alternative use of paper because of the environmental effects of plastic or the current concern with textile ‘throw away fashion’. This gives students a better understanding of how designers and manufacturers have a role to play in improving our environmental future as well as encouraging students to reflect on their own consumer choices, developing skills and attitudes that will allow them to make positive contributions to modern Britain.

When working in the workshop students are expected to follow health and safety procedures to ensure they are keeping themselves safe and others around them. After practical lessons they are responsible for cleaning and organising their workspace, developing skills for life to be used outside of the classroom. In class students are given lots of opportunity to work collaboratively to encourage them to develop social skills and teamwork outside of their usual friendship groups.