13+ Design & Technology
Process | Expectations | Dates
Assessment Process
The Design Technology Scholarship is awarded to candidates who demonstrate a genuine passion for design and manufacture, alongside strong creative and problem-solving abilities. We are looking for curious, motivated pupils who enjoy challenging themselves and who are excited by the wider impact of design and technology on the world around them.
Scholars at Ardingly benefit from outstanding facilities, expert teaching and a range of bespoke opportunities to develop their interests and talents.
Assessment includes a short portfolio review and interview with the Head of Design Technology (15-30 minutes). Portfolios should showcase a balance of creativity and technical skill, with evidence of drawing, making, modelling and/or digital design (CAD/CAM). We welcome portfolios that showcase either a particular area of specialism or a broader range of interests within Design Technology. It may include work produced at school, through extracurricular activities, or independently. Sketchbooks are encouraged to illustrate the development of ideas. Any 3D work should be presented through photographs – please do not bring physical models to the assessment.
Candidates will also take part in an extended (2 hours) practical session involving drawing and model-making, allowing them to demonstrate their creativity and skills over an extended task.
Expectations of Drama Scholars
DT Scholars are expected to sustain their scholarship role throughout their time in the Senior School, and stand out from their contemporaries through their commitment and love of the subject.
The Head of DT meets with DT Scholars regularly to support their development and ensure that the above expectations are being met.
Every scholarship holder is expected to set an example for the other pupils in their conduct and approach to academic study, to participate in the fuller life of the Senior School through its programme of extracurricular activities, and promote the school as requested at all Open Mornings.
The number of Scholarships awarded is at the discretion of the Head of College.
These awards are valid until the end of Year 11 if continued to GCSE level. If GCSE Drama is not taken as an option then the award will cease at the end of Year 9.
Design & Technology may be taken in its widest sense: we are seeking candidates excited to explore complementary design strategies and manufacturing techniques that they apply to solving design problems, realising ideas, evaluating and improving products for the benefit of the user.