Rydal Penrhos’ design technology department is inspiring the next generation of engineers. 

One of the more exciting curriculum changes at Rydal Penrhos over the last couple of years has been Engineering at GCSE. This is one of the wide range of options that enables pupils to begin a possible career path into a specific field, which comes with a significant amount of opportunities within the working world.

This vocational GCSE will provide those taking it with a taste of the real working world as well as an opportunity to explore the engineering sector, so they can figure out whether it is right for them in terms of a career and further education option in the future under the guidance and support of Rydal Penrhos’ exceptional teaching staff.

Candidates are assessed through a mixture of exams and controlled internal assessments in normal circumstances, although the examination process has obviously looked far different over the last 12 months thanks to the ongoing complications surrounding COVID-19.

Although Engineering is a non-traditional subject, it’s something that has proven to be highly popular with Key Stage 4 pupils and provides them with the opportunity to carry out research independently, participate in group work, go on trips, use real business resources, use the latest CAD-CAM programs and equipment and benefit from the advice of people who are actually working in engineering.

Each pupil is guided superbly throughout the module by the school’s Design Technology staff, who are leaders in their field and provide expert tuition to ensure each pupil gets the best possible knowledge and experience possible to reach their respective goals.

One such example is a current project conducted by Year 10 from their own homes as part of the school’s thorough online learning provision during the second educational lockdown.

Using a basic kit of materials provided by the school, the group have been tasked with creating a working prototype of a spring-powered car – this focuses on the intricacies of design and planning as well as consolidating their knowledge of materials, levers pulleys and energy conversion.

They will model their solutions in 3D CAD software as well as compete with their final creation in a race after Easter.

This is yet another strong indicator as to how much incredible work is being done across all departments at Rydal Penrhos Senior School during the lockdown period, which is preventing any substantial learning loss, developing new technical skills and ensures every pupil will be able to make a smooth transition back into face-to-face learning when the Welsh Government gives the green light.

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Anyone wishing to enquire about Rydal Penrhos School can do so by calling 01492 530155, email admissions@rydalpenrhos.com or register your interest online here: https://rydalpenrhos.com/admissions/apply-now.