Technology and applied studies (TAS) is mandatory for all students in Year 7 and 8. Students can also select from a range of elective TAS subjects.
In TAS, students use a range of tools, materials and techniques in the design process and technological experiences through theory and practical lessons.
The continuum of technology learning is:
- based on students becoming increasingly sophisticated in their ability to design and produce solutions for authentic needs and opportunities
- an option for student specialisation in high school through a range of syllabuses addressing particular technologies and aspects of design.
Home Economics
Studying Home Economics at Glenwood High School from Year 7 to Year 12 enables the students to learn vital life skills and to develop a deep understanding and knowledge of technology and design processes. Home Economics subjects enable students to learn how to manage, interpret, shape and alter their environment to improve their quality of life at home, school, in work places and in the broader community.
The rapid rate of technological change in an increasingly knowledge-based society highlights the need for flexible technological capability, innovative thinking and effective communication skills. Vital life skills such as team work, communication, time management and organisational skills underpin all of the Home Economics design projects.
The Technology Mandatory Years 7–8 Curriculum provides students with opportunities to use a variety of thinking strategies, embrace new concepts and learn through trialling, testing and refining ideas. The practical nature of Technology Mandatory engages students in design and production activities as they develop safe practices and refine skills working with varied materials and production technologies.
Students who elect to study one of the Home Economics electives in Years 9 and 10 develop confidence and proficiency in the design, production and evaluation of textiles and food items. Practical project work forms an essential part of the course providing students with the opportunity to develop skills in the manipulation and use of a variety of materials, equipment and techniques. Students also document their project work, showing the development and evaluation of their design ideas.
Child Studies is also offered as an elective. The knowledge, understanding, skills and values developed through this subject provides a foundation for a wide range of study options in and beyond school, and also a range of vocational pathways that support and enhance the wellbeing of children.
The Stage 6 Textiles and Design course consists of the following areas of study: Design, Properties and Performance of Textiles and the Australian Textile, Clothing, Footwear and Allied Industries. In Year 12, students also undertake a Major Textiles Project. In the senior years, students experiment with and apply the elements of design to a variety of textile applications. Designs are analysed in relation to functional and aesthetic requirements. Graphical communication techniques such as objective, fashion and production drawing are applied in the documentation of practical projects. Students also develop practical textile skills as they practise and apply manufacturing techniques in the construction of textile items.
Students who elect to study Food Technology in their senior years are provided with opportunities to develop skills relating to food that are relevant and transferable to other settings. Such skills include the ability to research, analyse and communicate. Students also develop the capability and competence to experiment with and prepare food as well as design, implement and evaluate solutions to a range of food situations.
Community and Family Studies (CAFS) is also offered as a HSC course. Students selecting this subject gain the skills and knowledge to be able to effectively make strong decisions about their life. This course develops skills in managing resources that enable people to function effectively in their everyday lives, in families, groups and communities. Community and Family Studies can have a direct and positive influence on the quality of students’ lives both now and in the future.
The extensive range of subject choices in Home Economics gives students the skills and knowledge essential in today’s world.
Industrial Arts
Studying Industrial Arts at Glenwood High School from Year 7 to Year 12 provides students with the opportunity to learn technical skills to solve problems within our society. Our project-based approach provides real experiences and develops a deep understanding and knowledge of technology and the design processes. Industrial Arts subjects enable students to learn how to manage, interpret, shape and alter their environment to improve their quality of life at home, school, in work places and in the broader community. The rapid rate of technological change in an increasingly knowledge-based society highlights the need for flexible technological capability, innovative thinking and effective communication skills. Vital life skills such as team work, communication, time management and organizational skills underpin all of the Industrial Arts subjects.
The Technology (Mandatory) Years 7–8 Curriculum aims to develop students' ability to design, produce and evaluate quality solutions to problems and needs in society. It enables students to justify solutions and to responsibly, safely and creatively use and select materials, tools and techniques from a variety of sources.
At Glenwood High School, students are able to choose from a broad range of specialised subjects in Stage 5 and Stage 6 (Years 9 – 12). We currently offer Industrial Technology courses in: Timber and Furniture Industries, Metals, Engineering, Electronics, Design and Technology, Graphics and Multimedia. Students who elect to study one of the Industrial Arts electives in Years 9 to 12 develop confidence and proficiency in the design, production and evaluation of projects based on the chosen industry. Practical project work forms an essential part of the course providing students with the opportunity of developing skills in the manipulation and use of a variety of materials, equipment and techniques. Students also document their project work, showing the development and evaluation of their design ideas.
The use of new and emerging technologies is embedded in all areas of study. Students have access to Computer Numerically Controlled machinery, 3D design software, 3D Printing and modelling that allows students to develop their ideas and are encouraged to test and critically analyse their design solutions. Industrial Arts subjects naturally create an environment for students to engage in higher order thinking through project-based learning. Inherent in all our courses is a strong emphasis of current practices in Work Health and Safety. Students gain through experience, the correct use of industrial machinery and apply risk management strategies to manage their working environment.
Courses of study
Stage 4
In Year 7 and 8, students study:
- Technology
Stage 5
In Year 9 and 10, students can choose to study:
- Electronics
- Engineering
- Fashion Design
- Food Technology
- Graphics Technology
- Information Software and Technology
- iSTEM
- Metal Technology
- Timber Technology
Satge 6
In Year 11 and 12, students can choose to study:
- Design and Technology
- Engineering Studies
- Food Technology
- Industrial Technology (Graphics)
- Industrial Technology (Metal)
- Industrial Technology (Multimedia)
- Industrial Technology (Timber)
- Information Processes and Technology
- Software Design and Development
- Textiles
In addition, the following Vocational Education courses are offered:
- Hospitality
- Information Technology