Engineering

"As engineers, we are in a position to change the world, not just study it." Henry Petroski.

Our vision for Engineering at All Saints

Key Stage 3 (Years 7-8)
Our KS3 Engineering curriculum aims to develop a love of engineering by helping students communicate their ideas through sketching, 3D modelling, CAD/CAM, prototyping and practical work. Students explore different engineering sectors, understand how engineering shapes the modern world, and learn to design with purpose by considering user needs, materials, and the work of key designers and architects.

In line with our Christian vision and SIAMS focus on wisdom, dignity and community, students learn to work safely, respectfully and collaboratively. They develop resilience through testing and refining ideas and show compassion by designing with others’ needs in mind. The curriculum also nurtures aspiration by helping students understand the diverse careers and pathways available within engineering.

Key Stage 4 (Years 9-11)

At KS4, Engineering becomes a rigorous academic and technical course where students build strong sector-specific knowledge and skills. They study engineering disciplines, apply science and maths to real problems, learn to read engineering drawings, and understand how materials are selected for specific applications. Students also develop competence in using engineering tools, equipment, production planning techniques and manufacturing processes.

This stage reflects the SIAMS commitment to wisdom, knowledge and skills, encouraging students to think critically, solve problems responsibly and engage confidently with real-world challenges. Through practical application and thoughtful evaluation, students develop independence, resilience and ambition, preparing them for further study or careers in engineering and related fields.

How will we achieve this?

Learning Journey

How will we assess Engineering?

KS3

Key Stage 3 (Years 7–8)

Assessment in KS3 Engineering is designed to track progression in both practical and theoretical understanding throughout each project. Students are assessed regularly through:

• Practical Skills – including safe tool use, accuracy, craftsmanship, and application of technical processes.
• Theory Knowledge Checks – short assessments exploring engineering principles, materials, processes, and sector understanding.
• Master of Recall Tests – low‑stakes quizzes that help students strengthen long‑term knowledge retention.
• Designing & Making Projects – each year group completes a core design-and-make task:
  • Year 7: Candle Holder (timbers based)
  • Year 8: Ruler & Set Square and Electronics (Polymers, CAD and Electronics based)
  • These projects allow students to demonstrate creativity, problem‑solving, and their ability to communicate ideas using sketches, modelling, CAD/CAM and practical outcomes. Assessment is ongoing and supports students in developing the resilience, independence and technical accuracy required for KS4.

KS4 NCFE Engineering - Assessment

Year 9: will be assessed on Theory assessments which are a mixture of multiple choice and up to 9 markers questions, along with Practical skills, Engineering hand drawings and CAD drawings.

Year 10: will be assessed on Theory assessments which are a mixture of multiple choice and up to 9 markers questions, along with Practical skills, Engineering hand drawings and CAD drawings. Y10 will also complete a full Synoptic mock along with End of year full mock exam.
 

Year 11:
Theory Assessment (40%)

KS4 students are assessed frequently to build confidence and familiarity with exam content and structure. Assessment includes:

• Weekly Online Knowledge Tests – checking understanding of engineering sciences, materials, processes, and technical principles.
• Extended 9‑Mark Exam Questions – marked using NCFE criteria to build exam technique and deepen analytical skills.
• Past Paper Practice – used throughout Years 9, 10 and 11 to ensure students are fully prepared for the external written exam in the summer of Year 11.

The written theory exam contributes 40% of the overall grade.

Practical Assessment (60%)

Students complete practice synoptic projects throughout the course that mirror the structure, expectations and challenge of the final assessed project. These synoptic tasks include:

• Interpreting briefs
• Planning and sequencing production
• Selecting and using tools, machinery and materials
• Applying engineering processes accurately
• Evaluating outcomes against technical criteria

The final synoptic project, completed in Year 11, is worth 60% of the overall grade, and requires students to demonstrate independent decision‑making, technical precision and problem‑solving across a full design‑to‑manufacture journey.

What is the impact of our work? 

Students’ Comments

“I enjoy the practical aspect of this course and learning about ‘real world’ situations.”

Cultural Capital opportunities:

Engineering at All Saints Academy provides students with a wide range of meaningful experiences that broaden their understanding of the modern world, inspire ambition, and equip them with the confidence to participate in an increasingly technological society.

Exploring real‑world engineering

Students learn how engineering shapes the world around them—from architecture and product design to electronics, transport and infrastructure. They explore how engineers solve real problems and improve quality of life, helping them see the purpose and impact of their own developing skills.

Understanding industry and career pathways

Through exposure to different engineering sectors, design processes and manufacturing methods, students gain insight into the wide range of careers available in engineering, technology and construction. This supports aspiration and helps students recognise the relevance of their learning to future opportunities.

Developing practical, hands‑on skills

Students use industry‑standard tools, equipment, CAD/CAM software and workshop processes. These experiences build confidence, independence and technical competence—skills that hold genuine value beyond school.

Connecting learning with society and culture

Engineering helps students understand how products, buildings and systems respond to human needs, environmental challenges and changes in technology. They learn to consider sustainability, user needs and the ethical implications of design.

Building character through Engineering

Through iterative design, problem‑solving and practical manufacture, students develop:

• Resilience – learning from mistakes and refining ideas
• Creativity – designing original solutions
• Teamwork – collaborating safely and respectfully
• Critical thinking – analysing problems and making informed decisions
• Responsibility – following health, safety and ethical standards

Enrichment and wider experiences

Where possible, curriculum learning is enhanced through activities such as design challenges, industry‑linked contexts, visits to STEM‑related events, and opportunities to engage in extracurricular engineering and design‑based clubs. These experiences widen horizons and deepen understanding of the world of engineering.

Engineering Prefect

UPDATE DUE SUMMER 2026

How you can help your child:

KS4 NCFE Website: https://www.qualhub.co.uk/qualification-search/qualification-detail/ncfe-level-12-technical-award-in-engineering-4593#SupportMaterials

Knowledge Organisers

    Year 7 Engineering

    Year 8 Engineering