The Technology learning area is a rich tapestry of learning in a range of contexts that focus on creativity, design and construction. The knowledge and skills acquired are transferable and prepare students for the real world and for tomorrow. Alvin Tofler said ‘‘The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.” We know that this learning area is one that truly engages students with the learning that is required not just for yesterday and today, but for tomorrow.

Design & Visual Communications & Technology (Hard Materials)

Design & Visual Communications and Technology (Hard Materials) challenges students in ways unlike any other subject. As stated in the NZ Curriculum, Graphics and Technology are the creation of a product (by design) and manufacture utilising practical and intellectual resources. These courses are for ALL students. Design & Visual Communications is technical design which still uses the pen and pencil while incorporating high end computer technology. Technology (Hard Materials) allows students to get their hands on a range of materials and tools – to develop skill, knowledge and insight into the fabrication process. These subjects offer students the opportunity to be innovative, creative and show initiative.

The students learn teamwork and communication skills. Not only does it provide technological literacy essential for informed participation in today’s world, it also provides skills useful in a variety of tertiary courses and paves the way to exciting career opportunities.

Building Academy

2022 saw the creation of the Lytton High School Building Academy. Lytton High is one of only a handful of schools across New Zealand to participate in this programme. The academy is an exciting opportunity for enthusiastic students interested in looking at Carpentry and Building as a career. Students begin with constructing smaller projects such as seating, fences and decks for domestic properties. Equipped with the knowledge they have learnt around creating a safe job site, tool handling and following building processes they move onto the main project.

Within our purpose built academy facilities students will build a 2 – 3 bedroom house from the foundations through to the finishings. Graduating from the academy, our students will enter the industry with invaluable knowledge and experiences putting them a step ahead of other young people beginning their apprenticeships. 

Makerspace

Since the introduction of MakerSpace at Lytton High school we have seen more industry based products being developed using the machinery we have right here at Lytton. MakerSpace provides a hands-on creative way to encourage students to design, experiment, build and invent as they deeply engage in science, engineering and tinkering.

A MakerSpace is not solely a science lab, woodshop, computer lab or art room, but a combination of all of these elements where individuals can express their ideas. MakerSpace has taken off with the introduction of timetabled classes making use of it.

We currently have a Year 9 course called Go Create making personalised products for themselves, whānau and friends.

Students at Year 10 have been delving into product design, from writing a brief to making a prototype and then developing their full blown product. Senior students who have been through this course in the past are now using the Makerspace to further their learning and achievement in other areas of their schooling. MakerSpace continues to take on a bigger role throughout the school and with more students being exposed to the capabilities of the MakerSpace, it won’t be long before individuals are turning into entrepreneurs and selling their products at local markets.

Fashion

In an ever changing world the skills required in Textile Technology still have a place in the future, especially as we look at sustainable fashion becoming a necessity for the changes that need to be made. Students now have the opportunity to learn sewing and construction techniques to produce textile items from Year 9 through to Year 12 as an option choice.

This enhances the skills and confidence to attempt Level 1 and Level 2 in NCEA. This is a perfect opportunity for students to excel using their creativity. Food & Catering The courses offered in this department begin with the ‘Planet to Plate’ option which is offered to Year 9 students.

This course looks at the importance of sustainable food and uses locally produced food in their recipes as the seasons allow. There is a two term module offered to Year 10’s and the highlight of the course is when the students invite a friend for lunch serving a three course meal that they have cooked themselves.

The senior classes (11 and 12) continue to be a strong draw card for students who are interested in following a pathway in the Hospitality Industry. We aim to use fresh, healthy food in our recipes and introduce a variety of skills to produce quality food products.