Technology

The Technology Learning area encompasses Design Technology, Digital Technologies and Food Technology.

Technology is all about intervention by design, and about making a difference in our world. That calls for complex problem solving, critical thinking and creativity, as well as taking account of implications and ethical dilemmas. We aim to develop our students' skills and knowledge so they become creators rather than just users of technology. Studying Technology subjects helps prepare students for a rapidly changing society and for careers that are in demand.

Design Technology

Design Technology is a creative and dynamic programme that gives students challenging and exciting learning opportunities to build their skills and knowledge as they develop a range of outcomes and technological practice. Students bring together practical and intellectual resources in creative and informed ways to engage with the many technological challenges of today’s world and of those in a possible future.

Design and innovation are key concepts in the Design Technology learning area. You will have the freedom to experiment and become capable with a range of different materials and applications, encouraging  innovation in a range of fun and interesting contexts. You will learn and develop knowledge and skills such as; product design, problem solving, critical thinking, project management, planning, flexibility, creativity, coordination, collaboration, communication , manipulation of materials and construction methods. You will work individually on projects as well as also being able to work as part of a team. Students are well supported  in designing innovative products, trialing and developing prototypes of their own creations with a focus on sustainability to meet the needs and opportunities within the community.

Studying senior Design Technology will further advance skills, giving you the ability to be fluid in your skill set and in your knowledge. By having adaptive and transferable capabilities will help you stand a better chance of enjoying more diverse, creative and fulfilling career roles in the future.

Co-curricular Opportunities

Students have the opportunity to be involved in a range of co-curricular activities such as the school production, Showquest and National design competitions.

Met Gala inspired  Matariki Corset	Nature inspired  Matariki Corset	Van gogh inspired Matariki Corset

Digital Technologies

Our world is more digital and fast paced than ever before. Digital Technologies shape our homes and communities as well as how we interact with each other and live our everyday lives. It's a vibrant growth area with lots of opportunities for creativity, experimentation and problem solving. Digital Technologies leads directly to tertiary-level courses and qualifications, and exciting well paid careers. 

You're bound to find something you like doing in the Year 10 Digital Technologies course. Do you like designing? We do game design, websites, 3D printing and computer graphics. Do you like making things work? How about programming, robotics, game design and Computer Science. The Design Thinking Process underlies them all, and that involves problem solving, project management as well as testing and trialling prototypes. You'll work by yourself and in a team. 

Year 11 – 13 students specialise and develop their knowledge and skills much further.

Course topics focus on designing and developing digital outcomes such as websites, as well as databases, programming and Computer Science. Year 13 students can choose their pathway and project, making solutions for real problems, needs or opportunities in the community. 

Students can enter various competitions such as an international problem solving competition and, for Year 10 students, the national 123 Tech problem solving competition. 

Students using Makey Makey electronic board to build a water piano. 

Students use 3D printers to build models of their own design.

Students work as a team to develop a solution to a real world problem in the NZ Digital Challenge.

Food and Nutrition

Over the course of five years the students are taught skills and knowledge that will help them navigate the complex food environment of the 21^st Century.  They become discerning consumers and are equipped to make wise food choices that are not only enjoyable to eat but are health enhancing. It is vital for young people today to understand the impact their food choices have on their long term health and the long term sustainability of their environment.  Students are not only taught sound nutrition, food safety and preparation skills but they also develop a love to create beautiful, nourishing and delicious dishes and treats which help enhance well-being at all levels. The learning experienced in this area benefits not only studies pertaining to food but other career pathways as well. 

Tertiary study for food related careers are human nutrition, dietetics, health promotion, Food Science and food safety which are offered at Otago, Massey and Auckland universities and Auckland University of Technology. Some other career pathways in food are teaching, health care, food stylist, product development, technologists, food writers and of course the many opportunities in hospitality.

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Subjects in this Learning Area

Prime Minister, Textiles and Industry Sales and Service, Retail and Wholesale Hospitality: Chef, Baker, Bar Manager, Bartender, Front of House, Caterer, Cafe Manager, Tourism, Hotel/Motel Receptionist, Barista Automotive Industry: Automotive Engineer, Automotive Electrician, Motor Body Trades: Light and Heavy Fabrication Engineering: Fitter Turner, Composite Engineer, Machinist and Toolmaker, Marine Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Construction: Scaffolder, Roofer, Boat Builder, Plumber/Gasfitter Armed Forces: Navy Weapons, Engineering Officer, Aircraft Engineer, Army Field Engineer, Aeronautical Engineer, Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, Architect, Architectural Technician, Automotive Mechanic, Bicycle Mechanic, Biochemist, Biomedical Engineer, Biomedical Technician (Mechanical and Electronic), Biotechnologist, Boiler Attendant, Brewer, Butcher, Cabinet Maker, Chemical Engineer, Chemical Production Operator, Chemist, Civil Engineer, Civil Engineering Technician/Draughtspers,