The new A Level D&T students have started the course by developing their knowledge and understanding of mechanisms and materials. In their first project, they are challenged with designing and making an AUTOMATA.

An automata is a playful way to explore simple machine elements such as cams, levers, and linkages, while creating mechanical sculpture. They’ve been around for hundreds of years, with stories about automatons all the way back in Greek mythology!

The students are encouraged to design, model, improve and make – called the iterative design process – to help develop skills for their project work in year 13. The two examples included below, show Stan and Joe’s automata models, impressive stuff!