Design & Technology (DT) is far from a "Craft” class, it is a discipline integrating creativity, technology and logic, focusing on equipping students with design thinking to solve real-world challenges. LEH Foshan’s DT curriculum, from fun practice to advanced academics, always takes "real scenarios" as the anchor, allowing students to grow into innovators with both imagination and execution through hands-on experience. Starting from the recently popular "Dream House" project, let’s unlock the diverse values of Design and Technology at our school.
A Full-Cycle Design Thinking Carnival
As a landmark practical project of DT, the "Dream House" encourages students to envision their ideal living spaces while addressing real-world issues such as sustainability and functionality.
Students participate in the full design cycle: from empathizing with the housing needs of diverse groups and defining core problems, to brainstorming creative solutions, making prototypes, and iteratively optimizing designs through peer feedback. This practice has equipped students with core skills — creative problem-solving, technical drawing, 3D modeling, teamwork and critical thinking, and deepened their understanding of sustainable design, leading to thoughtful choices in material selection and energy use.
Mr McMahon is our Head of Design & Technology and Computer Science Faculty. He is an experienced educator and designer with a rich background in teaching and leadership. He has over 10 years’ experience in education in the UK, and was the Head of Design Technology and Catering at Redruth School in Cornwall before joining LEH Foshan. His professional accomplishments include leading curriculum innovation, mentoring student teachers, and integrating technology into education. He has also worked as a surf coach and has experience in graphic design for business clients.
Mr McMahon holds a BA (Hons) in Three-Dimensional Multi-Disciplinary Design from Buckinghamshire Chilterns University and a PGCE in Design Technology from Luton University. He is also currently pursuing an NPQ in Leading Teacher Development.
Personalized feedback is central throughout we show students that design is rarely linear, repeated polishing through testing and critique is the norm for professional designers.
LEH Foshan’s DT programme in A Level is characterized by "simulating real design workplaces": students work on detailed design briefs as if serving clients, fostering professional thinking and communication skills; the curriculum focuses on industry-standard tools such as CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacture), equipping students with job-ready digital skills.
Through the practice chain of "research-sketching-modeling-iteration-final product", the programme enables students to grow through critical reflection, laying a solid foundation for higher education and careers.
Click here to learn more about LEH Foshan’s DT curriculum in different key stages.
From Classroom to University:
Preparing for Further Studies
Design and Technology at LEH Foshan goes far beyond simply making things, it’s about solving real-world problems through creativity, innovation, and technical skill. Students should have a genuine interest in how products are designed, developed, and brought to life, and be ready to engage with the full design process, from researching existing solutions and sketching ideas to modeling, manufacturing, and evaluating outcomes. A Level DT also involves learning industry-standard tools such as Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacture (CAM), which require time and dedication to master. It’s a subject that rewards curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to iterate and improve.
Students who pursue A Level DT at LEH Foshan unlock a wide range of career pathways that extend far beyond university. The programme equips learners with transferable skills in creativity, problem-solving, and technical design, preparing them for fields such as architecture, industrial design, product development, engineering and interior design.
Future Developments for DT
As students progress, they will have the opportunity to specialize in either architecture or product design for their final major project, allowing them to pursue their individual interests and strengths. A key component of this phase is learning how to produce a professional design portfolio, documenting their process, using relevant software, and showcasing their work effectively. Students will also be trained to confidently use the outstanding facilities in the DT department, gaining hands-on experience with tools, machines, and a wide range of materials.
Head of Design & Technology
and Computer Science Faculty
These future developments are designed not only to challenge students creatively and technically, but also to prepare them for higher education and careers in the design industry. I cannot wait to see the results of what our students produce next. They should be very proud of what they have achieved well done.
From the creative journey of the "Dream House" project to every hands-on design exploration, LEH Foshan’s Design & Technology programme is a catalyst for innovation, igniting in students a passion to imagine, create, and shape the future. Guided by expert educators and supported by world-class facilities, our learners are empowered to think beyond boundaries, push the limits of what design can achieve, and emerge as the visionary leaders, skilled engineers, and bold creators that tomorrow demands.
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