Department Aims
Design and Technology at JESS Arabian Ranches is firmly based on a problem solving approach to learning, through the design and manufacture of products fit for purpose. The design process provides a foundation in all areas of the subject and a common structure for all student schemes of work. The aim of the Key Stage 3 course is to give students of all abilities the opportunity to investigate, communicate (both orally and through graphic media) and to critically analyse and evaluate design solutions. Students are expected to co-operate with their peers in group activities and are actively encouraged to manage, plan and structure their own design work to meet given deadlines.

Department Facilities
The Design and Technology Department comprises of two fully equipped workshops, a materials processing room, discrete CAD CAM facilities and a design studio. Students in both Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 have access to these facilities to produce high quality outcomes, through the use of a wide range of resistant materials and graphic media.

The Department integrates CAD/CAM throughout the subject, providing open access to CAD facilities such as 2D Design Tools, Pro-Desktop and Solidworks software packages.  These software packages are linked to a variety of CAM machines including a Laser Cutter, Denford Router, Roland Modella and Roland Vinyl Cutter. In addition, Graphics students have access to the full Adobe design suite through two purpose-built computer rooms as well as departmental laptops. The school is heavily involved in the F1 in Schools Challenge and has invested in the necessary software and hardware to design, manufacture, wind-tunnel test and track race 3D student outcomes within the department.