They aim to develop skills for independent living and to enable pupils to organise, manage and make appropriate use of resources and to make informed choices and decisions.

The department consists of a modern, self-contained purpose built unit and is very well-provided with modern electrical and technological equipment. This includes a memory-craft sewing machine which is used to implement pupils' own designs when designing using a PC. In Food Technology students have the opportunity to use Computer Aided Manufacture in the form of a bread maker, ice cream maker, pasta maker and deep fat fryer. Pupils also have access to the most advanced nutrional modelling program available to schools.

In the Lower School pupils are introduced to inter-related aspects of Design and Technology but within the department primarily working with food and fabrics. Knowledge and understanding of the working properties, manufacture and aesthetic qualities of fibres and materials, and good quality products is developed.

All pupils in the Third Form study Food and Textiles Technology, covering basic skills in designing and making products, as well as the theory of nutrition and healthy eating.

This experience enables pupils to make their GCSE choices and a majority of pupils at King Edward's opt to study one of the Design Technology options, attracting both boys and girls.

Food and Textiles are an option with the IB Design Technology course.