KS2

Students are in mixed ability groups and are taught in half-termly rotations. Two of these six rotations are DT focused, two Art, 1 Food and 1 Textiles.  Pupils will have a double (2 hour) lesson each week and are taught in groups which range from 20-24.

Year 5

Pupils design and manufacture a glove puppet based on a character from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which is the book studied in Year 5 English lessons. Pupils are taught a range of practical skills, including how to mark out, cut, pin, make a pattern, hand stitch, embellish and assemble, and will use a variety of equipment and materials.

Year 6

Pupils will complete the Bag ‘N’ Tag project in which they design and produce a printed reusable bag with a complementary key tag. This involves investigating pattern, designing motifs and printing. Alongside the development of the sewing and cutting skills learnt in Year 5, students will be taught how to manufacture, and experiment with, print blocks to create imaginative print designs for their bags with fabric paint. 

KS3

Pupils will study the main three disciplines within the Creative Practical Arts Department - DT, Food and Textiles. They will complete a full term in each. During their two week timetable, pupils will have one double lesson and are taught in groups of 18-20 pupils. The longer practical session allows for pupils to fully immerse themselves in their practical tasks, whilst building on prior knowledge, enabling students to explore and connect ideas and develop their textiles, literacy and numeracy skills. These units also have a focus on famous designers, careers and sustainability.

Due to COVID restrictions last year, both Year 7 & 8 pupils will use a variety of practical skills, equipment, machines, fabrics and techniques to manufacture a cushion, inspired by the work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Initially, students will produce a piece of research homework based on the designer, architect and artist. Pupils will be taught how to thread up and use the sewing machine, pin and tack and manufacture hems, as well as extend sewing, cutting, assembling and finishing skills taught at KS2. Pupils will also be introduced to CADCAM and experiment with different embellishment and applique techniques.

In the next academic year (2022-2023), Year 8 pupils will engage in a new, exciting Textiles/Art project- The Elements. Students will explore a variety of traditional and new techniques, including batik, felting, weaving, hand and machine embroidery, applique and the creation of new fabrics reusing existing materials. Culminating in pupils upcycling a clothing item, utilising a combination of the methods they have experienced.