Design and Technology

Design Technology

While boys may use the Design & Technology facilities to tackle projects entirely of their own conception or work on their assessed coursework, structured self-guided workbooks are available for a number of popular projects.

Boys have the opportunity to apply for Arkwright Scholarships and submit entries to the Young Designers and Young Engineers Competitions.

Clubs provide a focus for free-time activity in Mill seven days a week and include:

Greenpower

A team of twelve boys design, build and race a car with an electric motor powered by two car batteries.  The design stage incorporates many aspects of engineering, from structures and materials to electronics, mechanics and aerodynamics.  The boys also develop business and marketing skills through the process of raising sponsorship and procuring materials and equipment.  The construction phase utilises a range of traditional and modern materials, production techniques and practical problem solving. 

Ingenuity Challenge

An activity jointly organised with the Mathematics Department, the challenge for 2009-10 is to turn a mathematical strategy game into an electro-mechanical product that eliminates the need for a judge.  The format and rules of the game are set out and the boys work individually or in teams to complete the design and manufacture of a working prototype.  Prizes are available for successful outcomes and there is scope to protect and license the intellectual property.

Robotics

Boys work individually or in teams to design, build and test robots, drawing on scientific curiosity and, for many, the love of gadgets and programming. There is scope to enter a number of robotics competitions such as ‘Micromouse'. General electronics projects, such as audio amplifiers and lap counters, also prove popular.

Jewellery making

For those inspired by the silversmithing project in the 1^st Year Design & Technology Curriculum, there is the opportunity to craft elegant and stylish jewellery from precious metals and gem stones, as gifts for loved ones or for personal adornment. 

'Architech'

Within the D & T Centre, prospective architects have access to a library of books and current journals such as ‘Blueprint', industry standard Computer Aided Design software, and model making materials and equipment. 

From modernisation of existing buildings and designing dream eco-homes to hotels for space tourists, the scope for developing an impressive portfolio of creative work is limitless.

CAD/CAM/CNC

The Department is equipped with a range of cutting edge software and machinery for Computer Aided Design and Manufacture. Intricate patterned and engraved artefacts are produced, impossible to achieve with traditional methods. For example, charcoal moulds can be designed and machined for casting silver jewellery.

Digital art and web design

Using the latest Adobe software boys can exercise their creativity in the digital age. Activities range from photo editing and image manipulation to designing posters and websites for clubs and societies.

Advanced woodwork

There is a strong tradition of craft skills in 'Mill'. Facilities are available and experienced staff are on hand to assist with projects involving wood turning and furniture making. 

Advanced metalwork

Ornamental artefacts as well as engineering prototypes are constructed in metal, giving boys the opportunity to learn about metal turning, milling, brazing and welding.

Cycle maintenance

Thanks to a generous grant from the Friends of Winchester College the department is equipped with professional bicycle tools, enabling boys to overhaul or upgrade their bicycles before setting out on the local trails. There is scope for innovative transport solutions to be designed and made from scratch once the principles of bicycle mechanics have been assimilated.