MetalWork

• The aims of the course are similar to those for Material Technology Wood and they are to:

• Make an essential contribution to general educational development;
• Link observation and action with ingenuity and creativity and with problem-solving and higher level responses;
• Develop work related disciplines;
• Provide insights into engineering technology at a variety of levels.

• Metalwork however increases the scope of manual training by introducing pupils to a greater variety of tools and processes: as a result, making them more knowledgeable in the basic techniques by which metals are made to conform to modern needs in the age of mechanisation and technology.

• The educational value of this subject derives in part from the use of the various tools, processes and materials, and also from the linking up of other school disciplines, such as science, mathematics and drawing, with these workshop techniques.  The metalwork course provides many opportunities for illustrating, by practical applications, basic principles not easily exemplified in the classroom.

• The sense of satisfaction and achievement which results from being able to interpret a drawing, plan a work sequence, and carry out a task in metalwork, so designed that it demands thought and skill, makes a special contribution to the development of a pupil’s personality.  Diligence, perseverance, self-reliance and the perceptive faculties can be fostered and strengthened by such practical training and pupils get a pride in personal achievement not otherwise readily attainable solely from academic work.

• The Metal work course consists of two sections:
• Metalwork Practice
• Metalwork Theory

• Why did I choose Metalwork…
• I like making projects with metal and plastic.
• I like using electronic things and making things work.
• Because I learn how to make toys and it’s fun to play with them especially as I make them.
• I always liked designing and making things and I wish to continue this.

•  The advantages of studying Metalwork…
• Learning how to use different tools.
• You learn more about engineering.
• It will be very helpful if I want to learn a trade.
• I will be more experienced in the areas of building with metal and choosing the right sections and sizes.

Careers

Mechanics; Aircraft technician; Army/Air corps Apprenticeship; Electronics; Fitter; Mechanical production; Structural and Civil Engineer; Metallurgy; Service and Maintenance Personnel; Technical Sales; Toolmaker; Industrial design.