Technology Department

DTC

In Level 1 DTC we began by learning basic Python that we later used to create a game. Some examples of the code we are using are print, input, int, str, and def for creating functions. I have enjoyed the experience of learning something new but it has also been challenging as well. At the moment we are putting together all of our knowledge to create our own code.

In Level 3 we started the year by conducting an Inquiry-based around an area that we choose. In this Inquiry, we need to formulate questions based on our topic of choice, and through doing some research, we will answer these questions. At this point in time, my topic is the issues that some people face every day at school. After this Inquiry, I will create a game that will teach people about what I have researched. I will use the Unity game engine to make this game as I would like to learn how to use that engine. I am really looking forward to the game development side so hopefully, I will reach that point soon.

Mechanical Engineering

This year sees a change in direction in the mechanical engineering space with the arrival of Matua Jeremy into the space with a focus on the fundamental basics of mechanical engineering.

The Year 11 cohort are currently working on brief development and the fabrication of a toolmaker's clamp using a wide range of hand tools and mechanical processes.

The year 12 cohort are extending upon the skills the have already developed in this space and in the process of developing their own individual project complete with briefs.

DVC

Design and Visual Communication in 2023 has been a subject of interest for students within Ellesmere college. There has been an outstanding amount of passion and drive from students right from the start of 2023 and there is no sign of it slowing down. Students look at different design movements such as modernism, deconstructivism and Brutalism. They take inspiration from these and figure out a way to use their design movements as inspiration for the assessments that they work on throughout the year. Students also learn how to shade specific materials for use within their product designs.

Home Economics

So far in Year 11 Home Economics ākonga have been learning how to prepare kai to keep themselves safe, as well as how to report food safety issues to protect the health of our community. In week 8 the students were assessed on preparing butter chicken and enjoyed having the meal for lunch afterwards - mahi pai e te whānau!

Students in photo L-R: Azaria Fleck, Kayley Jack, Bella-Rose Pua and Reagan Hart.

Woodwork

In wood this year students in the senior lines have moved to more student led projects. Year 11s have the brief of small space living. Year 12s have been able to select their own brief based on a design problem. Year 13s have selected their own context and identified an issue within this. Students have learnt skills in identifying problems, analysing existing products, identifying and interviewing potential clients, designing a product and experimenting with materials.

Comments from students:

"Hi, I’m Lukas I’m making a shoe rack as it would be functional for my bedroom to put my shoes."

"It’s Liv Taylor I am going to be making a funky bookshelf for my books so I have more space around my room."

"My project is a fishing box. I have been testing wood joints for this. Michael"

"I’m Hunter and I am going to make a desk out of rimu. So far I have tested wood joints and tested stains."