Resistant Materials

All pupils can expect to work with and learn about a broad range of materials such as woods, manufactured boards, plastics, Styrofoam and metals as well as using a number of ready-made components. Pupils will also gain experience of industrial techniques such as vacuum forming, pewter casting and CAD/CAM.

Projects have been specifically designed to cover many areas so pupils gain maximum benefit from the subject – and as well as Resistant Materials projects, we also cover graphic design, basic electronics, systems and control where pupils learn how to solder.

Pupils are supported to participate in every stage of the design process. This can include activities such as; analysing products, designing, developing ideas, modelling, planning, constructing, testing and evaluating. The subject really does offer something to cater for every pupil’s interests; whether it’s drawing, making or planning we build on their skills (regardless of ability) and develop their confidence and independence in the workshop.

In Resistant Materials we are commited to….
Giving pupils as broad and creative experience as possible.
Providing a safe learning environment where pupils can develop their practical skills.
Increasing pupils’ understanding of the technological and industrial world.
Improving confidence, independence, decision making and problem solving.
Supporting the growth of key skills (communication, social skills, motor skills concentration, coordination, sequencing) and providing application for literacy, numeracy and ICT

Pupils will have 3 lessons over a fortnight.

In Key Stage 3 pupils are led on a journey through the main material areas with a mixture of instructed, design-your-own and group challenge projects. Various  teaching methods are used and a number of thought provoking tasks are applied to engage all pupils. In Key Stage 3 pupils will work with all of the tools and equipment within the workshop.

We assess across 5 assessment strands; Designing, making, evaluation planning and subject knowledge.

In Key Stage 4 pupils will complete the NCFE Level 1 VCert in Creative Craft.

The NCFE Level 1 VCert in Creative Craft is made up of 4 separate units; Unit 1 Exploring Craft Skills, Unit 2 Develop a Design Idea for Craft, Unit 3 generate ideas in response to a brief, Unit 4 Produce and review a final craft Idea. There is no external exam and all of the units are practical skills evidenced through written portfolio of evidence. The grades awarded for the VCert range from a pass, merit, distinction and distinction*.