• Unit 1: Exploring the engineering world
• Unit 2: Engineering design
• Unit 3: Engineering applications of computers
  
• Unit 4: Producing engineering solutions
  
• Unit 5: Electrical and electronic circuits and systems
  
• Unit 6: Application of manufacturing techniques in
  engineering
  
• Unit 7: Application of maintenance techniques
  
• Unit 8: Exploring engineering innovation, enterprise and technological advancements (externally assessed).

To fulfil qualifications, students will pass their Functional Skills level 2 exams in Mathematics, ICT and English. Their generic learning will also include development of Personal Learning and Thinking Skills (PLTS) such as creative thinker, team worker, self manager, effective

participator, reflective learner and independent enquirer. All students will complete 10 days of work experience with our partner businesses. Companies such as Parsons Brinkerhoff (www.pbworld.co.uk), TWI (www.twi.co.uk), Higgins (www.higgins-group.co.uk), Harlow Group (www.harlowgroup.co.uk) and engineers from NHS Princess Alexandra Hospital (www.pah.nhs.uk) have promised their ongoing support in the delivery of the Diploma. Not only that they have offered exclusive work placements and mentoring for students working on their projects, they have agreed to support the delivery of units to make them work related. And as St John’s have worked with them on many occasions, we know that our students will get the best engineering provision ever!

The Diploma provides young people with:

• a combination of the essential knowledge and skills that employers and universities look for, including team work,
• self-management and critical thinking skills.
  
• opportunities to experience different styles of learning in different environments such as school, college and the workplace, with an emphasis on practical activities and an integrated curriculum;
  
• opportunities to experience work in one of the UK’s main employment sectors;
  
• flexibility and choice with options to pursue their interests, whether this is further study or a job;
  
• an insight into what work is really like without committing them to a career in a particular area;
  
• a high-quality qualification that will be valued by industry and higher education.

To find out more details about the Engineering Diploma please visit the website http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/14-19 or email Mrs M. Brewin (Assistant Headteacher/Director of Engineering) on mbrewin@st-johns-epping.essex.sch.uk.

Through our Engineering specialism, St John’s has developed relationships and has shared resources and good practice with local schools, industries and businesses. Innovative teaching and learning through Engineering has provided a model of excellence both within St John’s and across its wider community.

St John’s specialism has also raised the post-16 participation rate in Engineering, thus providing our students with the skills needed to progress into employment, further education, and higher education.

Delivery of Vocational Engineering – the 100% pass rate for students taking the BTEC 1st Diploma Engineering is evidence of the quality of teaching and the commitment of the school to its specialism. St John’s is heading the roll-out of the Engineering Diploma across the Epping Forest Schools and Epping Forest College for the delivery in September 2010.

The Laser Cutter in the Design Technology Department provides the capability for cutting accurate, complex shapes in non-metallic resistant materials.

It allows students with limited computing skills to extend their inventiveness and to realise high quality, accurate products from their own computer-aided designs.

The students build the basic robot from the instructions and kit provided (approximately 12 hours' work) and can then design unique bodywork and think of ideas to improve its performance. The bodywork can be made to any design from any material.

The robot kits provide good quality electronic construction and make use of modification and adaption of other electronic tools and devices, such as a motor from an electric drill.

The competition allows teams of 3 or 4 student members to compete in three separate activities: each robot completes a timed assault course and there is a choice of two 'strength' events
o a tug-of-war or
o a sumo-style wrestling competition where Chariots try to push one another out of the arena!

Finally, teams of two Rampaging Chariots compete in a football match demanding skill, agility and strength.

Our students have enjoyed making their Rampaging Chariot in their own time after school and have also been inspired by taking part in the competition on a Saturday at Basildon, supported by their families.

http://www.rampagingchariots.org.uk/homepage.php