Design Technology

Congratulations to all the Design and Technology staff and students for the hard work and dedication through another challenging year. Staff members have been unwavering in their resilience and mental fortitude, delivering a first class Design and Technology program in person and remote.

This year we have welcomed two new staff members to the department. Karen Ansell commenced as the Food Technician assisting Kate Sanford with the Food Technology program. She has worked above and beyond her role to ensure students can create a range of healthy and engaging recipes. Scott Cunningham has assumed the role of Workshop Technician, his hard work and organisational skills have allowed teachers and students to create quality practical projects in a safe and clean working environment.

This year marked the opening of the new Mazenod STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Lab. The new CO2 Laser Cutter and 3D Printers have integrated well into the Design and Technology programs with students using 3D software and Visual Arts software to create a range of interesting design solutions. A big thank you to our newly appointed STEM Technician, Peter Saaksjarvi, for his hard work and dedication.

Although circumstances prevented Year 8 and 9 Design and Technology students from completing as much practical work as would normally be possible, students took the opportunity to master their design skills using CAD (Computer Aided Design) software. Year 8 students were able to create intricate designs of their pencil box and drag car project, and thanks to their hard work on campus were able to complete these projects successfully. Year 9 students were able to successfully design and create a wooden toolbox, using the CO2 laser cutter to engrave a personalised decal onto the project.

This year has included an array of experiences for students studying Food Technology in Years 8, 9 and 10, including a combination of both school and home-based cooking opportunities. At school, an edible garden was established that allowed students to prepare meals from ‘paddock to plate’. New equipment such as chef’s torches and pasta machines broadened the students’ skills and the introduction of a production-based Year 10 exam that required students to design a morning tea platter for staff proved to challenge students’ creativity and organisational abilities. Establishment of the maz_chef Instagram page has allowed for achievements in Food Technology to be shared with the Mazenod community, showcasing the zest, teamwork and perseverance of so many students.

A big thank you to Rimma Campos for coordinating the ACC Art Exhibition entrants. The Design and Technology department was able to showcase some of its best work to the public and other ACC schools. Well done to all the students who participated.

Once again I would like to thank all Design and Technology staff and students for their efforts all year.

Lachlan Gray Head of Faculty Design & Technology