The Abbey Grammar School
77a, Ashgrove Road
Newry
Co Down, BT34 1QN
N Ireland
+44 (0) 28 3026 3142
Technology and Design in the Abbey aims to:
Encourage Effective and Independent Learning:
Foster self-directed learning by providing pupils with the tools, resources, and support to plan, monitor, and evaluate their progress. Encourage reflection and goal setting to develop a growth mindset and self-regulation skills.
Enhance Decision-Making Skills:
Promote both individual and collaborative decision-making by giving pupils opportunities to make choices about their work, whether through independent tasks or group projects. Encourage critical thinking and problem-solving by allowing them to justify their decisions and consider alternative approaches.
Cultivate Creativity and Critical Analysis:
Support pupils in developing creativity by encouraging them to explore existing solutions and design concepts. Help them make connections between technological knowledge and the principles of good design. Encourage them to analyse and critique design solutions in terms of aesthetics, function, and sustainability.
Empower Pupils to Design and Make Quality Products:
Provide opportunities for pupils to apply their knowledge and skills to design and create products or systems. Incorporate sustainability into the design process, asking pupils to consider environmental, social, and economic factors. Promote hands-on learning experiences that combine technical skills with creativity and design principles.
This approach can guide pupils toward becoming more autonomous, reflective learners who can make informed, sustainable decisions while developing both creative and analytical thinking skills.
Technology & Design is taught in a purpose-built suite comprising three systems rooms, two planning rooms and three multi-material workshops. The workshops are fully equipped with a range of hand tools and equipment including a metal lathe, MIG welder and oxyacetylene welding facilities. ICT facilities include 5 interactive whiteboards and 56 C2kni networked desktop computers with associated peripherals, graphics tablets and printers. Three CNC routers and a newly acquired laser cutter, which will be used extensively by all pupils in the manufacture of 2D and 3D components from computer aided drawings.
Key Stage 3
All pupils study Technology & Design at Key Stage 3.
In Years 8, 9 and 10, pupils will have the experience of using a range of different materials, such as acrylic, aluminium, plywood etc. to manufacture individual projects. Pupils will have the opportunity to manufacture 2 different projects each year, as well as completing theory, graphics and computer work related to these projects.
Year 8 Manufacturing Projects : Freddie the Frog & Door Entry Indicator
Year 9 Manufacturing Projects : Mechanical Owl & Moisture Sensor
Year 10 Manufacturing Projects : Phone Holder & LED Night Light
GCSE
Pupils have the option of studying GCSE Technology & Design. The AQA specification is followed.
Unit 1: Technology and Design, with Optional Areas of Study in Systems and Control, Electronics; NEA: Design and Manufacturing Project – A controlled assessment (NEA) where students complete a design project comprising a design portfolio and an associated manufacturing task.
2 hour written exam – 50% of GCSE
Non-exam assessment (NEA) – 50% of GCSE
AS & A Level
Pupils have the option of studying A-Level Technology & Design, preferably, if they have studied it at GCSE level. The CCEA specification is followed. Students complete a design project comprising a design portfolio and an associated manufacturing task.
AS Level
AS (1): Compulsory: Design and Materials. Option: Systems and Control – Specialist area of study: Students answer two questions that reflect the area of technology they chose to specialise in from the three options available. Option A: Electronic and Microelectronic Control Systems.
1 hour written exam consisting of two papers – 50% of AS – 20% of A-Level
AS (2): Coursework: Product Development – Students complete one task, producing a practical outcome with a design folder.
Product development – 50% of AS – 20% of A-Level
A2 Level
A2 (1) : Option A: Electronic and Microelectronic Control Systems.
2 hour written exam – 30% of A-Level
A2 (2) – Coursework: Product–System Design and Manufacture. Students complete one task, producing a practical outcome with a design folder.
Product development – 30% of A-Level
Head of Department
Technology and Design Teacher
Technology and Design and Construction Teacher
Technology and Design Teacher and Head of Department for Construction
Technology and Design and Construction Teacher
Technology and Design Technician
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