A celebration of work from our GCSE and A-Level students.
I wanted to congratulate each and every one of our students on completing their GCSE and A-Level Design Technology coursework. Their hard work, creativity, and dedication have truly paid off, and I couldn’t be prouder of their achievements.
Throughout this course, they’ve tackled complex projects, honed their technical skills, and demonstrated remarkable innovation. Each project showcased their unique talents and commitment to excellence.
I’ve been consistently impressed by their ability to turn ideas into reality, overcoming challenges and pushing the boundaries of their creativity. The students’ perseverance in the face of difficult tasks, collaborative spirit, and their willingness to learn and adapt have been inspiring to witness.
I would like to thank our students for making this year so rewarding and enjoyable. For Year 11 students moving up to the 6th form, this is just the beginning and for Year 13 who are moving forward into all areas of design, engineering and fashion, we wish you all the best and look forward to welcoming you back in the future inspire the next generation of Royal High School students.
Torie Gill Head of Faculty
Everything in the show is live coursework so please do not publish any photographs on social media.
Alex
Context: playing games Box of educational games
Over the course of this project I have learnt how to run a project from inception through to its conclusion. I have discovered that projects don’t always run smoothly and there are many unforeseen problems that arise no matter how well you plan. I have learnt many practical skills. Understanding these will help me should I develop other products as I know what it feasible and what is less so.
I am extremely happy with my final prototype. I have learnt and refined many skills. I have been able to hit the EYFS skills within my product and the different types of play. I am most proud of my drawer box joints, the intricate painting on the sides of the main box, the phonics snakes and ladders game and the storage bags.
Amelie
Context: securing or storing personal possessions
Climbing gear storage
I made a product for storing climbing gear. I enjoyed the freedom of choosing what to make as well as going all the way from initial research to having a finished product. I learnt many skills in the workshop as well as more broad skills like time management. Some advice for future generations would be to enjoy the process as much as possible and be as organised as you can.
Charlotte
Context: climate change
Hall storage using upcycled materials
My project is a shelf I made out of old pallet wood to meet my climate change theme. During the time of making my project, I enjoyed spending time around my friends and teachers, they were so helpful and got me through the stressful times. I also enjoyed learning new skills and trying things out of my comfort zone. I learned about climate change and how we can help by making products more sustainable, as well as how to use and expand my knowledge on various tools, equipment and skills in the DT workshop. Overall I have enjoyed every minute of my time and being surrounded by such a lovely, supportive group of teachers and mentors.
Claudia
Context: securing or storing personal possessions
Tote bag
I made a denim tote bag, using a total of 3 pairs of jeans.This bag is inspired by Yinka Ilori, so I stitched some bright and bold-coloured appliqué on the bag, to make it stand out. I enjoyed stitching the shapes on the bag using different stitching techniques, including zig-zag stitch and blanket stitch.
Throughout this coursework, I’ve learnt how to make a hidden pocket inside the lining, and how to print patterns on a piece of fabric using sublimate printing.
All in all, I really enjoyed making this bag, and I hope to apply the skills I’ve learnt from this to make other types of bags, or even clothes in the future.
Daisy E
Context: climate change
Warm weather clothing
For my coursework I followed the brief of ‘climate change’. I made a top and shorts set to link into clothing for a warmer environment. My project was made of sustainable fabrics – specifically using linen – and I made sure to add in multiple adjustable components like the tied back to allow for a longer wear time. I really enjoyed this project as it taught me many new skills.It was stressful at times, for instance, when I made mistakes in attaching two or more parts together and had to unpick them.
Daisy T
Context: climate change
Festival outfit
For my piece of coursework, I chose the theme of sustainability, since I think it is extremely relevant and poignant theme to current affairs. I chose to focus on fast fashion. Through this, I produced a concept of recycling sample fabric into a new, multiple function garment that can be worn for various occasions, saving wardrobe space. This project has been extremely revealing and has taught me many skills as well as perseverance and resilience, and was a lot of fun to create!
Eliza
Context: climate change
Statement garden table
The part of this design that I really like, and is effective in making it have a strong visual impact - is that you can still see the bottles (eco bricks). It makes you think ‘Why?’ which I like. My client also likes products to have an intriguing element. Eco-bricks are something that are very linked to my problem, climate change, and are highly efficient at slowly making a difference to solve it. These empty bottles will become eco-bricks when my client has filled them with waste plastic.
Ella
Context: playing games
Games bag and playing surface
I designed my product to be used by families as a multifunctional game which can be played on the beach in many ways (such as ‘Skittles’, ‘Petanque’ and ‘Kubb’). After problem solving and iterating my design, my product took the shape of a compact bag which stores game components, of which I designed to work in different ways. I learnt a lot from the designing of this product, including organisation skills and the importance of creativity in design. I loved the process and experience of this project and am looking forward to carrying on designing and creating products next year in Sixth Form.
Ellen
Context: securing or storing personal possessions
Door-mounted additional storage
My project was inspired by a personal need for storing clothes in a bedroom with a sloping ceiling. I designed a wardrobe with sliding doors that can fit into an allotted space in the room. I wanted it to both fit into the surroundings and stand out as an interesting design. I enjoyed this project as it gave me lots of freedom to do what I wanted, and brought out a creative side that my other GSCE subjects have not.
This experience has given me the skills of perseverance in stressful times and the ability to problem-solve and think outside of the box.
Emily
Context: climate change
Space saving planter
Gardening is a relaxing and enjoyable activity which is difficult to do in a small space. Research has shown that gardening and working with plants can benefit your mental health.
My design is a rotating plant stand that is specifically made for those who live in smaller spaces Even in a very limited space this planter provide a source of really fresh herbs without any waste. This is much more sustainable than buying herbs from a supermarket.
If you don’t want to grow herbs you could choose to plant an aesthetically pleasing or deliciously scented mini garden. Or use low maintenance succulents.
Emma
Context: securing or storing personal possessions
Kitchen organiser
I designed an organiser for my client’s kitchen. It has compartments designed for kitchen tools and spices. I enjoyed the process of making the product as I had lots of independence. I learnt a lot about time management and staying within a certain time frame. A piece of advice I would give to future students taking DT is to stay on top of tasks set during coursework and to pace your self through the process.
Eowyn
Context: climate change
Upcycled make up storage
I constructed a makeup bag out of plastic and old materials. My theme was climate change, and because plastic in the ocean and landfills has a negative impact on the environment, I chose to reuse old plastic from tents and bags. In addition to being sustainable, it is compact and easy to store. It contains several compartments to accommodate the average amount of make-up.
I truly enjoyed the process of creating my product, especially seeing my plans and hard work come together. I have learnt a lot about how to plan and develop a product including designing, making prototypes, product analysis and research.
I also developed my textile skills; I learnt skills such as piping, bias binding, interfacing, overlocking, embroidery and much more. Although at times it was challenging these last two years of DT have been a great experience.
Evie
Context: climate change
Low chair using upcycled jeans
I chose the climate change brief for my GCSE project as I have alwasy been passionate about the environment. I really enjoyed making my chair. It was a long process where I developed and improved my DT skills in every single area from sketching to varnishing. I felt so proud of myself when I had finished my chair.
This is why I recommend DT GCSE as it gave me a boost of confidence, I never knew I was capable of building a whole project.
Flora
Context: climate change
Upcycled festival wear
For my coursework I designed and made a twosided pair of festival trousers, upcycling sportswear clothing that was sourced from school and my family. The brief for my project was climate change and after speaking with my client I realised how much she loved playing sports but felt frustrated at how difficult it is to dispose of her sportswear in an environmentally friendly way. She also loves festivals, so I created these festival trousers from discarded sportswear.
What I loved about the project was my use of vivid colour, which to me is one of the most important things about festival wear. And also being given the creative freedom to create a pair of trousers in my style.
Greta
Context: climate change Dress for warm weather
I am very pleased with how my product turned out, and the feedback I received from my user and focus group. Despite making a few modifications throughout the process, the final product is very similar to what I received as a brief from my user. If I were to make any further modifications, I would make the sleeves thinner and the skirt slightly longer. But I learnt so much and had such fun making this outfit!
Harri
Context: playing games
Adaptable game centre
I am delighted with my finished product and in meeting the overall objectives of the task to create a game which is accessible to a wide range of people including the neuro diverse aged from 6 to 100.
I enjoyed researching various aspects of the design and developing ideas as the project progressed. Finding solutions to the problems which arose (such as the screw splitting the wood and the melting plastic on the stand joint.) was very satisfying.
The elements I would improve given more time are to add more colour to the product, to create a colourful drawstring bag for ease of storage. I would add the corkscrew spike to aid stability and amend the size of the bracket hinge and material of the stand joint. I would also develop a number of additional games such as chess.
Hazel
Context: climate change
Clothes storage using upcycled materials
My product has a unique style which fits in with a modern aesthetic. The brightly coloured zips add a cheerful pop of post-modern colour and I have used upcycled materials in an innovative way.
The main material I have chosen is plastic bags that have been fused together for strength. The fused fabric gives a slightly opaque look but retains the original printing for character. It looks really stylish, it is compactable and my client loves it. I faced many challenges when making this product but I perevered and solved the problems. I learnt so much!
Holly
Context: securing or storing personal possessions
Clock with secret storage
Throughout out my time at Royal High, I have come to appreciate and love the process of learning. Design and Technology has been a major part of my time here, giving me the opportunity to develop my skills, knowledge and understanding of designing functional products.
My final product is a clock with secret drawers around the edges for protecting personal belongings.
The part I enjoyed most was the making. I learnt to properly use different tools. DT enables me to utilise my maths, science, computing and art to become more resourceful and innovative. Although DT can be hard, with lots of coursework, the satisfaction of finishing the best product possible and taking the stress away from exams is worth all your hard work and dedication.
GCSE
Kay
Context: climate change
Upcycled outfit
In this project, I up cycled my client’s party dress into a casual outfit, a rouched tube top and layered skirt. I really enjoy the process of designing and deconstructing the dress.
During the process of making, I faced a lot of difficulties such as sewing the wrong side together so I had to redo the whole thing as well as forgetting to leave a space to punch the eyelet. However, these have developed my skills in problem solving. My advice in doing this project is to plan it thouroughly in advance to avoid wasting time on redoing anything.
Lola
Context: climate change
Flatpack compost bin with planters
I chose the area of climate change I decided to look further into food waste, specifically finding a way to compost food waste easier and more accessible for everyone. Throughout this project I have been able to explore my creativity and test, design and research many different ideas and areas that interested me. Although I have loved doing this project it has definitely tested my attention span and proved how much I procrastinate, yet it has also taught me many different ways to encourage myself to continue working which is something I will have for the rest of my life. However, I have thoroughly enjoyed working on this project while having fun and making memories with my friends and teachers.
Lucia
Context: securing or storing personal possessions
Small space storage for boat living
My storage solution is designed to fit neatly into a small living space. My client lives on a narrow boat and storage space is always needed. The tambour door means nothing swings outwards into limited space. The flat top allows for more storage or display.
My client likes the overall aesthetic and thinks that it would fit in well in the environment on the boat. He appreciates how the product is versatile (can be rotated and inverted). Further developments might include, a different variety of interior storage spaces, e.g., drawers and pegs, or a moveable shelf. This design could be part of a modular system.
Lucy Context: climate change
Upcycled school bag
My project was a school bag that is sustainable and made from old fabric that would have gone to waste, and I made it comfortable and practical for lots of occasions. My inspiration was pinecones and nature and I have appliquéd ‘leaves’ onto the front. I’m very pleased with the outcome of my product and is exactly how I envisioned it.
I would definitely recommend taking DT GCSE as I have developed hugely from it in terms of communication, problem solving, and in my manufacturing skills which are all very important in life. Overall, the coursework has been a very rewarding experience and I could not of done it without the help from my amazing DT teachers
Megan
Context: playing games
Themed games with storage bag
I really enjoyed doing the DT GCSE course this year. I feel it has taught me many useful skills for the future and that I have been very resourceful during this project. For my final project I designed and made three, under the sea themed, games, with a handy storage bag to keep them in, aimed at children aged 5-9. I most enjoyed sewing, making my product, and testing it with my target market. Next year I hope to be doing a standard IB DT course along with my A-levels next year.
Mila
Context: securing or storing personal possessions
Secure festival bag
For my DT coursework I chose to do ‘Securing or Storing Personal Possessions’, from this title I went on to research about the safety of festivals and keeping items safe there, this led me to enhance my knowledge on current products in the market for this problem and became inspired to make a bag to keep my client’s items secure. I made a cross body bag with many attributes: can be worn in different positions, waterproof, durable, and more aspects essential to the festival life. I really enjoyed the experience of seeing my project develop from paper, to fabric, to a final bag.
I learnt so much from this project, as someone who usually does woodwork I loved learning these new skills that I never knew I could ever do.
Mimi
Context: playing games
Games box with back-lit playing surface
My product was inspired by moments around a campfire and family bonding. Over the course of year 10 and 11, I have learnt and been encouraged to work hard and be creative. My brief was “playing games” and it is a solution to dark nights out camping, or with the colourful LED lights, just for enjoyment.
I’m so proud and thankful for this project and all it has taught me.
Annabelle
Multifunctional wear
The product which I made was focused on multifunctional wear in the cost-of-living crisis. I produced a set of gaments that could be dressed up for formal occasions such as balls or graduation, and dressed down for more casual settings
I created two bodices which could be interchanged by the sets of eyelets at both the fronts and backs of the corsets to make either a half and half design or two stand alone pieces. These had different embroidery designs which could be removed to have a plainer design or added for a more decorative option. The bodices were inspired by the Japanese art form Kintsugi which uses gold
I also made a mini skirt which uses Velcro to attach a longer skirt over the top. The long skirt can be worn with an open or closed front.
The last piece which I made was a shawl embroidered with flowers to match the corset. This dress up the outfit, or be a standalone item over a top or shirt. In total I was able to create around 60 different ways this outfit could be worn.
Cece
Commuter bag and seating
A-LEVEL
For my A-level project, I designed and made “the Ruck-Seat”. I am a train commuter, so I spend a lot of time on the move, and I usually do not get a seat. Therefore, to remedy the problem, I created a bag that you can sit on. I enjoyed the process of taking my idea from a rough drawn sketch, right the way through to a good quality and functioning product. It had it’s ups and downs but that is to be expected. I learnt that patience is important! If a concept does not work then it is not the end of the world. Maybe that idea just needs a tweak.
For any future DT students: I cannot stress enough how vital it is that you stay on top of your coursework. I learnt this the hard way. Also, CAD is not as scary as you think. Embrace it. It earns good marks!
Lucy
Prosthetic ballet foot
My project is a prosthetic foot that allows an amputee to dance with a ballet shoe, an activity that requires a high range of control and movement in the foot. It is designed to increase the amount of inclusivity and diversity in ballet. The problem I have targeted with my product is the inability to dance en Pointe and Relevé and Flat whilst using a prosthetic foot. The foot will need to smoothly and reliably recreate the movements of a biological foot that are most important in ballet etc. Plantarflexion, inversion, eversion. I have mimicked these by using a combination of linear actuators and pivot points. I want to ensure that the foot is aesthetically pleasing and echoes the elegance of the ballet dancer’s movement, without attempting to disguise the fact that the foot is prosthetic.
As we conclude this year, the Design Technology Department is proud to reflect on our numerous achievements and advances. Our students have greatly benefited from enriching experiences, such as trips to the Design Museum and insightful talks by renowned designers in the fashion industry. Our GCSE and A-Level students have demonstrated remarkable dedication and creativity, showcasing their skills and innovation.
We have also celebrated diversity and inclusion through our Women in Engineering Day, which inspired many of our students and emphasized the importance of gender equality in the design and technology sectors. Our commitment to providing state-of-the-art resources has been reinforced by significant investments in new CNC technology, including the A1 Laser and a 3D multi-material printer. These tools have enhanced our capabilities in prototyping and design, offering students hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology.
