Design and Technology

Our way of life, standard of living and the wealth of our country is to a large extent dependent on the design and manufacture of products and devices. It is therefore surprising that up to now students in WA schools have not been able to study subjects based on design and manufacture that would directly contribute to a tertiary entrance score. New Courses of Study bring an end to this situation. From 2006, Trinity is one of the first Catholic schools to offer Engineering Studies: over fifty students have selected this elective in Year 11. The course involves students learning a wide range of engineering principles to support work in areas such as electronics, robotics, structures, materials, design and manufacture. Overall interest in Design and Technology has continued to grow at the College. The enthusiasm and expertise of new staff member, Mr Rohan Van Dongan, has made a significant contribution to the range and quality of students’ work this year. The Treacy Technology centre was planned to give students insight and experience of technology in the modern world. Also to learn how products, machines, structures and systems become increasingly more complex and have a greater influence on our lives. With an emphasis on sophisticated technology, it is easy to lose sight of traditional values that underpin all design and manufacture activities. Students in Year 9 have produced projects including small hacksaws,

money boxes, model dragsters powered by small CO2 cylinders, drawings designs and illustrations using 3D computer graphics, electronic games and robotic control systems. The latest technology contributes to many of these projects but students are also encouraged to show high standards of ingenuity, craftsmanship and aesthetic appreciation. Curriculum development has continued to provoke change to the range of courses offered to students. In John Broadhead the near future Materials Design and Technology willHead of Design and Technology replace the WSA subject Applied Technology. With Engineering Studies, Materials Design and Technology will be available as a contributor to the tertiary entrance score. As the Treacy Centre has become established students’ understanding and ability have developed, which is reflected in the range and quality of work produced. The challenge for all Design and Technology teachers is to connect the increasingly sophisticated technology of the modern world, to traditional ideas and values. The basics of any effective product is still very simple, it needs to look good, work well and be safe to use.

John Broadhead

Head of Design and Technology

Academic