A good show but causes for concern

From one perspective the D&T with ict show was a great success but news of the specialist diploma in engineering has given us pause for thought.

This year the stand had more visitors than ever - just over 700. And we gave away 600 CDs containing all the KS3 and KS4 materials that are available from this website but organised into an easy access package. In February we will be contacting all those who received one for feedback so that the finalised version can be as useful as possible.

A highlight on the stand in addition to its new look were the three items designed and made by Jon Parker to show just what could be achieved from the KS3 Capability Tasks: Petshop Parade, Display your treasures and Carrying.

The pause for thought was the nature of the Engineering Specialist 14-19 Diploma. For many who attended, the session describing the nature of the beast raised worrying issues none the least being the role of design & technology teachers in teaching it. There's more on this in Curriculum Issues.

Last modified: 19 December 2006