Graphics is about creativity. Adapting and manipulating graphical materials such as paper, card, condensed foam, plastics and boards allows students to explore the properties of materials and place them in a commercial context. There is also a huge fun element that can also be explored. Creating ones own design that one then sees through to a three-dimensional outcome is enormously fulfilling. The unusual and extreme in design is actively encouraged and students are guided through processes that allow them to produce high quality products of which they can be proud.

All students study Graphics in Key Stage 3. Projects concentrate on their graphical drawing skills and involve a great deal of computer design. Making skills involve a huge variety of materials and processes that have a 3-dimensional outcome with prototypes of various products. During Year 9, students have the option to take Graphics. This involves the use of CAD and image manipulation programs such as Photoshop and 2-D Design. Their hand skills are also improved in the construction of their products and creativity is actively encouraged with their three-dimensional outcomes. The subject is extremely popular and a number of students choose to study it to GCSE.

of the AS-level grade. At A2-level, a design folder is created for a product that the student creates as a concept but can be for a real client and could have commercial implications. At AS-level and A2-level, an examination accounts for 50% of the final grade. Students who follow the Graphics syllabus often go onto university to study Product Design at degree level.

Students are actively encouraged to use our facilities during lunch and after school, and a member of staff is always on hand to give advice or aid.

Entries are made into national competitions and educational visits are provided when the opportunity arises. Outside agencies or speakers are invited in to school to inspire our students or provide them with further insight into the graphical industry and further education options.

The Engineering in Education Scheme is offered to a team of Year 12 students. Students from Graphics often take part in this prestigious event where the students work with engineers from industry and attend a university residential course for three days. A presentation is made to a judging panel and the teams findings are displayed at the final event.

The Smallpeice Trust offers a number of technology / science-based courses for students to attend from Year 9 up, and is highly popular as they offer a huge range of taster topics at universities.

The Graphics results are always excellent and show how a sense of wonder can be induced in students, who find that they are capable of producing original design and enjoy themselves, whilst creating their products.