Blending tradition and innovation at The Dixie Grammar School

Published 20th November 2025

The design and technology team at The Dixie Grammar School, led by Mike Mellors, is transforming learning by combining traditional skills with real-world industry practice. Their aim is to prepare students who are creative, resilient, and ready to meet future challenges with confidence.

A curriculum and environment designed for creativity

Over the past four years, the team has reviewed and restructured the curriculum, introducing a clear progression framework from Year 6 to Year 13. Differentiated outcomes ensure all learners are supported and challenged, while the integration of current STEM practices equips students with practical, critical, and lateral thinking skills.

The transformation of the former graphics room into The Design Studio is a key part of this vision. Designed with student input and informed by research from the Education Endowment Foundation, the space fosters collaboration, curiosity, and active participation. Its layout and resources align with the school’s values of respect, resilience, courage, commitment, and care.

Technology plays a central role. VR headsets allow students to visualise designs in immersive 3D, while CAD/CAM facilities and industry-standard software offer hands-on experience. The combination of technology, collaboration, and creativity brings lessons to life and encourages students to engage actively with their learning.

Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and the department plans to expand the studio with touchscreens, interactive displays, and an ‘Immersion Day’ to further spark curiosity and ingenuity.

Teachers can download the full PDF article featured in Practice 1 2025 to find out more or get their copy here for ideas to inspire their own classrooms.