Designing the future: Year 8 students dive into architecture with hands-on learning and an inspiring field trip

Integrating an architecture project into the Key Stage 3 Design and Technology curriculum for Year 8 students is a strategic and engaging way to foster real-world experiences and practical skills. The curriculum, structured around Project-Based Learning (PBL) pedagogy, ensures that students actively apply theoretical knowledge in a hands-on manner.

The curriculum

The architecture curriculum benefits from collaboration with architecture firms and industry professionals. These partnerships provide great opportunities for students, including field trips to architectural sites, interactions with professionals, constructive feedback sessions, and the potential for future internships. Industry collaborations not only enhance the academic aspect of the project but also expose students to the realities and expectations of the architectural industry.

A key focus of the architecture curriculum is the implementation of human-centred design principles. This approach encourages students to consider the needs and experiences of end-users when developing their architectural projects. By incorporating a Service-Learning component, students learn to address practical issues and contribute positively to their communities. This approach not only equips students with valuable skills but also instils a sense of responsibility and purpose in their design processes, preparing them for future academic and professional endeavours.

The field trip

In November, students visited a project by Supar Studio in Bang Na where Khun Suvapat, the project's architect, came to give a talk and motivate the students with real-life examples of building materials and technologies used. All the students had a fantastic time learning and chilling at a cafe with cool earthen walls surrounded by native blooming plants while learning more about architecture.