Frequently Asked Questions
Q - How important is Design and Technology in your school?
A - Status is a key issue for DT in many schools. There is no reason why DT should not be held in the same esteem as language subjects, humanity subjects and other areas of the curriculum. Anything short of this can, in my view, reflect an elitist approach that has no place in our schools and which deprives students of subject choice.
Q - Is Design and Technology only for the lower ability student.
A - Absolutely not! In my view, the most able students should have the freedom to choose DT, to get the highest grades at GCSE, to have the opportunity to take DT at A Level and to pursue successful careers in design. Of course, DT should also be accessible for our least able students but not a subject that is targeted at the least able.
Q - Should pupils who choose to take DT be encouraged to take a DT GCSE?
A - In my view, yes in most cases! If the DT curriculum is organised effectively, GCSE offers something for students of all abilities. Lots of DT departments no longer offer any internal DT pathways inc. Resistant Materials, Graphic Products and Textiles. I think this is a shame and is not in the spirit of teaching students about the design process that was at the heart of our subject's inception prior to the millennium, when DT became a world leader in design teaching. Although subjects inc. engineering and catering can be accredited at Level 2, in many schools, most of these courses are aimed at the lower ability Level 1 students.
Q - Is academic rigour more important than creativity?
A - My view is that the juxtaposition between academic rigour and creative 'rigour' constitutes one of the biggest misconceptions in recent education history. Friends I know who are architects and engineers are both bright and creative. The idea that our children need to choose between an academic curriculum and a creative curriculum is absurd and, in my view, the best schools offer genuine curriculum choice that is well resourced.
Q - Carl, are you academic or creative?
A - It will not surprise you that I consider myself both! Whilst I hold an MEd and have led whole school Teaching & Learning, I am also proud of my practical background and my ability to solve problems. What is far more important is our children's freedom to be academic and/or creative and to enable them to succeed where they feel they have strengths. Perhaps this would also help with engagement and behaviour management!
Q - Carl, could you come and support improvement to the DT curriculum in our school?
A - It would give me the greatest pleasure to work with you and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Remember that no problem is too small and that I am on your side!
