Step into a world where creativity meets technology, where ideas take shape, and where students become the innovators of tomorrow. At LEH Foshan, our Design & Technology (DT) programme is a journey of discovery and invention. With hands-on experiences, cutting-edge tools, and expert mentorship, students explore the limitless possibilities of design, engineering, and digital technology.
In short, Design & Technology (D&T) is a dynamic and creative subject that equips students with problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and innovative thinking. It encourages students to develop their creativity and analytical abilities by designing, prototyping, and manufacturing solutions to real-world challenges.
Mr McMahon is our Head of Design & Technology and Computer Science Faculty. He is an experienced educator and designer with a rich background in teaching and leadership. He has over 10 years’ experience in education in the UK, and was the Head of Design Technology and Catering at Redruth School in Cornwall before joining LEH Foshan. His professional accomplishments include leading curriculum innovation, mentoring student teachers, and integrating technology into education. He has also worked as a surf coach and has experience in graphic design for business clients.
Mr Benavides is our Head of Design & Technology with over 7 years of teaching experience in China, Colombia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. In his last position, he worked as a Secondary Design Technology Teacher in a British international school in Qatar. In his classroom, he is dedicated to devising problem-based learning schemes to ensure students acquire not only disciplinary knowledge and skills but also essential social awareness and leadership skills in the 21st century. Mr Benavides holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Design Technology from Universidad Pedagógica Nacional.
Our DT Curriculum follows the English National Curriculum, providing a rigorous and progressive pathway from Key Stage 3 to A Level.
Students develop their design and making skills while exploring materials and emerging technologies. The curriculum focuses on both functional product creation and critical thinking about design. Modules include product analysis, electronics, and engineering. The three main specialist fields are:
Graphic Products – Technical drawing and packaging
Resistant Materials – Working with wood, plastic, and metal
Systems and Control – Structures, mechanics, and electronics
I love DT because it’s so practical—we get to design and create real products that can be used in everyday life. We have the opportunity to explore different design software, work with various tools and machines like saws, glue guns, laser cutters, and 3D printers, and bring our ideas to life by assembling everything into a final product.
At IGCSE level, students deepen their understanding of Product Design and select a specialist field (Graphic Products, Resistant Materials, or Systems and Control). They follow a structured design methodology to create a physical product that addresses a real-world problem. The process involves identifying a need, generating ideas, developing a plan, constructing a prototype, and evaluating its success.
What I love about DT is that the only limit is your creativity. It’s a subject that truly teaches you through experience—I’ve made multiple mistakes, tried different approaches, and had to adjust my designs through trial and error. Each challenge is a learning opportunity, and that’s what makes the process so exciting and rewarding.
A Level Design & Technology offers an advanced study of design, engineering, and technology, covering topics such as product analysis, design theory, and sustainable design. Students enhance their expertise across all three specialist fields, applying advanced knowledge in engineering drawing, packaging, building materials, structural calculations, circuits, and electronic components. They create two distinct products and document their process in a detailed portfolio, demonstrating research, sketching, prototyping, and testing to refine their designs.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
LEH Foshan provides an exceptional learning environment for Design & Technology students, offering state-of-the-art facilities that foster creativity and innovation. Our fully equipped design workshops feature robust workbenches and heavy-duty tables, ensuring students have the ideal space to bring their ideas to life.
Our facilities include:
Drawing Tools and Aids:
Full sets of professional drawing instruments, including rulers, compasses, protractors, and cutting tools, allowing students to refine their graphic design skills.
Resistant Materials Tools:
A broad selection of hand tools such as hammers, screwdrivers, saws, and clamps, enabling students to work confidently with a variety of materials.
Resistant Materials Machinery:
Advanced machinery like scroll saws, drills, CNC machines, and laser cutters for precision and efficiency in creating complex designs.
Electronics:
A diverse range of components, including resistors, transistors, capacitors, and circuit boards, to support hands-on learning in electronic design and prototyping.
Additionally, LEH Foshan boasts dedicated learning spaces, including a high-tech Computer Suite with advanced design software, a drawing room, a DT studio, and a workshop project room. These well-equipped spaces empower students to explore every aspect of design, from concept to creation, in a dynamic and supportive environment.
The facilities here at LEH Foshan are truly impressive. With all these state-of-the-art equipment and dedicated learning spaces, we can provide students with hands-on experiences that bring their ideas to life. These resources not only enhance creativity and innovation but also make teaching and learning more dynamic, engaging, and effective.
Extra-curricular Activities
The journey of Design & Technology extends far beyond the classroom, offering students an immersive experience where creativity flourishes and innovation thrives. Through engaging extra-curricular activities, such as the Drawing Club, 3D Design Club, and Bike Light Club, students collaborate, experiment, and push the boundaries of design. Whether refining their artistic techniques, exploring the latest digital modelling tools, or tackling real-world engineering challenges, they gain hands-on experience that deepens their understanding and sharpens their problem-solving skills.
Studying Design & Technology at LEH Foshan opens doors to a range of university courses and careers. Graduates can pursue degrees including but not limited to architecture, engineering, game design, industrial design, product development, and digital fabrication. The practical and analytical skills gained in D&T provide a strong foundation for success in the modern world, whether in higher education or the professional sector.
In a recent interview with our Sixth Form students taking A Level Design & Technology, they shared their enthusiasm for future pathways and their passion for creativity and innovation was evident as they reflected on how DT has shaped their aspirations.
One student shared, perhaps inspired by her current project on 3D-printed houses and furniture modelling,
I would love to study interior design at university.
I am interested in game design & game art, and the skills and software we use in class are incredibly helpful and practical.
The Design & Technology programme at LEH Foshan ignites a passion for innovation, equipping students with the creativity, technical expertise, and problem-solving skills needed to shape the future. Guided by expert educators and supported by world-class facilities, our students are empowered to think beyond boundaries, push the limits of design, and become the visionary leaders, engineers, and creators of tomorrow.
