Design and Technology (Product Design)

Course summary

The A-level qualification in Design & Technology is aimed at those of you who enjoy designing and making high-quality products. Much like at GCSE, the A-level course is split between creating a portfolio, making a product and completing an exam. Product Design will encourage students to understand the needs of their clients, to develop their primary research skills and to communicate effectively by presenting a range of design proposals. Students will appreciate the importance of manufacturing high-quality products, which are fit for purpose and solve a realistic problem identified by the client. The two-year course is a chance for students to showcase all the skills they have accumulated since starting GCSE. In the first year of the course, students will complete a range of NonExam Assessment (NEA) tasks which will consist of design and make activities, developing their tool-handling skills, manufacturing techniques, materials knowledge and working properties, all of which will challenge and inspire students to problem-solve throughout the year. In the second year, students will use their knowledge and skills to undertake a single major project, working primarily on solving a real problem, for a real client. Students will receive weekly theoretical lessons to develop their subject knowledge throughout the two years.