Design and Technology (Product Design)

Course summary

This creative and thought-provoking qualification gives students the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in several careers, especially those in the creative industries. You will investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put your learning into practice by producing products of your choice. You will gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, alongside the knowledge and skills sought by higher education and employers. You will study in our Design Studio, CAD/CAM Modelling Suite and Workshop, all housed within a purpose-built block. We use the latest technology to ensure students can explore their design ideas to the full. You will have plentiful opportunities to visit exhibitions, manufacturers and leading universities including the Big Bang Fair and EES Residential at the University of Birmingham. Students are encouraged to enter national and local design competitions such as the Triumph Design Awards and to become engaged in design and technology through extra-curricular activities and clubs including running STEM and participating in the Greenpower Project. Several students, with support from the department, have been awarded the prestigious Arkwright Scholarship. This national award supports Year 11 students through their A Levels to encourage them to pursue Engineering or Technical Design at university or through a higher-level apprenticeship and to take up careers in the field. Successful students are linked with engineering companies who provide mentoring throughout their A Level course.