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The Irvine Royal Academy Technical Department provides a diverse range of learning experiences designed to develop creativity, problem-solving and practical skills. Our courses aim to prepare pupils for the modern world by offering hands-on opportunities and exposure to industry-relevant technologies.
In S1–3, pupils follow the BGE curriculum, gaining experience in both classroom and workshop activities. This includes the use of engineering CAD software, safe and effective tool handling, and the development of accurate and visually engaging desktop-published work.
In S4–6, pupils can select a range of certificated courses including National 5 Practical Woodwork, National 5 Design & Manufacture and Graphic Communication at National 5 and Higher level. There are additional pathways available in S5&6 for pupils who have a strong interest in practical trades and engineering - both the Performing Engineering Operations (PEO) and Furniture Making courses are delivered at Level 5.
Our courses are designed to build confidence, develop technical competence, and support a wide variety of future careers in engineering, design, trades and technology.
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Mr F Robertson – Principal teacher
Mr R Muirhead
Mr J McNaughton
Mr M Smith
Mr B Glachan - Technician
Curriculum Pathways 2026=27
Below is a graphic which shows the subjects offered in Technical and pathways associated with each.
Design and Manufacture
National 5 Design and Manufacture helps young people learn how everyday products are designed and made. Pupils get to be creative, solve problems and make real items in the workshop. They learn how to come up with ideas, choose suitable materials, and use tools, machines and computer software to bring their designs to life.
The course builds confidence, practical skills and an understanding of how products work in the real world. It’s a great foundation for anyone interested in practical trades, engineering or product design.
Practical Craft skills
Practical Woodwork teaches young people how to work confidently and safely with wood. Pupils learn a range of practical skills such as measuring, cutting, shaping and assembling wooden components. They use hand tools, power tools and workshop machinery to create high-quality projects, while also learning how to read drawings and plan their work.
The course helps develop accuracy, problem-solving, patience and pride in making something real and useful. It’s ideal for learners who enjoy hands-on work and are interested in practical trades or construction.
Graphic Communication
Graphic Communication teaches young people how to communicate ideas clearly through visual and technical drawings. Pupils learn practical skills in both manual drawing and digital software, including 2D and 3D CAD. They also learn desktop publishing, where they combine images, text and layout techniques to create clear, professional-looking documents such as posters, infographics and presentations.
It’s an excellent choice for learners who enjoy drawing, problem-solving and creating 3D digital models. It’s an excellent choice for pupils who are interested in the engineering industry as well as those with a keen eye for graphic design.
Performing Engineering Operations (New for 2026-27)
Performing Engineering Operations (PEO) Level 5 introduces young people to the essential practical skills used across the engineering industry. Learners develop hands-on abilities in areas such as machining, bench fitting, electrical wiring and safe tool handling. They gain experience working with industry-standard equipment while learning how to follow technical instructions, measure accurately and work safely in an engineering environment.
This course is an excellent choice for pupils who enjoy practical, task-based learning and want to understand how engineering projects are built from the ground up. It is ideal for those considering careers in mechanical, electrical or manufacturing engineering, as well as anyone who is considering an apprenticeship.
Furniture Making (New for 2026-27) Furniture Making Level 5 teaches young people the core practical skills needed to design and construct high-quality wooden furniture. Learners develop confidence in using hand tools and woodworking machinery, while gaining experience in measuring, marking out, cutting and assembling timber components. They also learn how to read technical drawings, apply appropriate finishes and work safely in a workshop environment.
It’s a direct pathway from National 5 Practical Woodwork so an excellent choice for those pupils who have come through that pathway. This makes it ideal for those interested in carpentry, joinery or construction.
Below are the Google Classroom codes associated for each class. Pupils will receive a variety of task and activities through this platform including homework.
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