Staff 

• Mrs Emma Linden - Head of Technology and Engineering

• Catrina O Neill – Technician 

Aims of the Department 

At St Joseph's College, Technology and Engineering enable pupils to think creatively, apply sustainable practices, solve problems, collaborate effectively, and evaluate design impacts, preparing them as innovative, informed consumers in a changing world. We aim to: 

• Develop an understanding of technological processes and products, their manufacture, and their contribution to our society. 

• Provide a broad and balanced curriculum that delivers diverse learning experiences, responds to the needs of the local community, and promotes an inclusive, supportive environment where all pupils have equal opportunities to succeed. 

• Create a supportive environment that celebrates success, values uniqueness, and nurtures potential. 

• Cultivate a caring, nurturing, safe, enjoyable and facilitate learning and teaching in an aspirational learning environment for all pupils. 
   

Curriculum Overview 

St Joseph’s College Technology and Engineering department, follow the Northern Ireland Curriculum at Key Stage 3 as the basis for the schemes of work.  At Key Stage 4 we currently offer Edexcel Pearson BTEC Engineering. 

Key Stage 3 

At Key Stage 3, Technology and Design is a practical course combining skills, materials knowledge, and manufacturing processes. Pupils develop ICT capability, including CAD/CAM, across all areas. Activities support creativity, technical understanding, and digital literacy, while encouraging sustainable thinking and environmental awareness in modern design and engineering contexts. 

• Year 8 focuses on sustainability, electronics, and CAD-based graphics. 

• Year 9 explores renewable energy, plastics, and product design like clocks and phone holders. 

• Year 10 develops skills in resistant materials, engineering, and packaging through practical projects. 

Key Stage 4 

At Key Stage 4, pupils have the opportunity to study the Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 First Award in Engineering, a vocational qualification designed to provide a solid foundation in engineering principles and practices. 

The course is delivered over 120 guided learning hours and includes both core units, which introduce key engineering concepts, and optional specialist units that let students explore areas like designing products, understanding materials, and using maths and science in real-world engineering tasks. 

The course is a great mix of practical work and written assignments, helping pupils build useful skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and communication. It’s ideal for those thinking about a future in engineering or other STEM-related careers, and it also supports learning in subjects like maths and science. 

What Will Pupils Study in BTEC Engineering? 

As part of the BTEC Level 1/2 First Award in Engineering, pupils will explore three key units: 

• Unit 1: Introduction to the Engineered World – This unit gives pupils an overview of different engineering sectors and how engineering impacts everyday life. It includes an external exam to assess understanding. 

• Unit 2: Investigating an Engineered Product – Pupils will take a closer look at how a specific product is designed and made. This unit is internally assessed through coursework. 

• Unit 7: Machining Techniques – In this practical unit, pupils learn about tools and processes used in engineering workshops. It is also internally assessed. 
   

Extra Information 

The Technology and Engineering department at St Joseph’s College is always active and engaging. While delivering the curriculum builds essential knowledge, pupils also benefit from wider skill development. These opportunities are offered through various enriching experiences such as: 

• Industry Projects – Pupils work with local businesses on real-world engineering tasks. 

• Guest Speakers – Talks from MEGA and industry leaders. 

• Industry Visits – Pupils tour local companies to see engineering in action. 

• Revision Classes – After-school sessions support exam preparation. 

• LEGO Club – Fun and creative problem-solving through hands-on building. 

• Welding Club – Practical welding skills and safety training. 

• STEM Ambassadors – Pupils promote STEM within the school and wider community. 

• LEGO Mentors – Older pupils guide younger club members. 

• Community Links – Pupils apply skills through projects that support the local community. 

• Girls in Engineering – Events encouraging female participation in STEM. 

• Pupil of the Month – Celebrating achievement and effort by pupils. 

• Careers Expo – Explore engineering careers and meet employers.