Design and Technology (Product Design)

Course summary

The A level course has a 50/50 split between examinations and coursework. Within the two examined units, pupils are expected to demonstrate an understanding of materials, processes, manufacturing technologies and industrial production. They will also gain an opportunity to develop an awareness of design-related social, economic and environmental issues, while gaining entrepreneurial skills. Within the exams design skills will be tested and 15% of both examinations assess the ability to apply mathematics. The Iterative Design Project requires pupils to undertake a substantial design project centered on the iterative design process - to explore, create and evaluate. Pupils will be expected to identify a problem or design opportunity from a specific context of their choice and create a portfolio of evidence in real time. The final design is then manufactured to a high quality. Throughout the project pupils will be expected to show innovation and present high levels of communication skills within written, graphical, CAD and three-dimensional practical outcomes We recommend that pupils have studied GCSE Design and Technology, though this is not compulsory. They also need to have a confident understanding of and interest in the theoretical elements of the subject and a firm grasp of GCSE level Maths (which forms 15% of the examined assessment). We would recommend the subject to pupils who have achieved a grade 6 or above in both Design and Technology and Maths GCSE. All candidates need to demonstrate a wide range of skills, including initiative and impressive time management.