Head of Design Technology's Dream Placement

While it is very much the norm to receive news of Bablake pupils undertaking a wide variety of work experience placements, Mr Chris West, Head of Design Technology, has just become one of only a few teachers lucky enough to benefit from a similar action. With his reputation for being a stalwart of many a school trip, no-one will be surprised to hear his work placement took him to the glamorous surrounds of Aston Martin.

His week's work experience was arranged in Aston Martin's Body Engineering department, following a conversation with Mr Frank Grimley who had delivered a presentation to Design Technology pupils at Bablake earlier this academic year.

During his time at Aston Martin, Mr West met a wide variety of engineers who showed him the latest developments in CAD (Computer Aided Design) work and its particular application in setting the Cygnet (pictured opposite) into production. Attending meetings between engineers and suppliers, he was able to experience the entire design process from conception to realisation.

At the completion of a stimulating and inspiring week, Mr West reflected on how worthwhile the experience had been: 'I am returning with so much new current knowledge to inject into the Design Technology department's teaching, especially at examination level. I also feel confident about helping with advice given to pupils considering Engineering beyond Bablake.'