Sixth Form Subjects

Design Technology

 Course Overview

• Develop creative and thought-provoking skills to gain theoretical knowledge and practical ability
• Gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, growing knowledge and skills sought by higher education and employers
• Design and make products of the students’ choice, furthering the skills learned at GCSE level
• Investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology
• Develop knowledge to progress to, and succeed in, a range of creative industries

Course Content and Assessment

The course consists of three key elements.

Paper 1

Written exam 2 hours in length
100 marks in total
25% of overall A-level grade
Paper is based around core technical and designing and making principles

Paper 2

Written exam 2 hours in length
25% of overall A-level grade
Paper is based around specialist knowledge and technical designing and making principles
Two main sections – Section A is Product Analysis, Section B is commercial manufacture

Non-exam Assessment (NEA)

Practical application of the skills shown above in the written papers
Substantial design and make task
Approximately 45 hours designated time
50% of the overall grade
A3 design portfolio with photographic evidence of the final manufactured prototype

Learning Methods

Students will use curriculum time in a flexible manner, developing research skills, creative design techniques and technical knowledge. There will be a range of design and make projects which will incorporate core principles to prepare students for the non-exam assessment and the written exams. A ‘hands-on’ approach to learning will be adopted where possible, allowing students to learn through application of practical techniques rather than a purely theoretical approach.

Future Pathways

As well as the obvious vocational opportunities in manufacturing and engineering, the Product Design qualification can be used for entry into a wide variety of careers. Students who successfully complete the two year course will be able to show evidence of practical problem solving and an ability to work in a team. They will also have acquired a wide range of communication and presentation skills, as well as a strong technical knowledge.

A wealth of employers and universities will value these, which should place the student in a strong position for higher education opportunities or employment in the vast Product Design industry.

 Entry Requirements

Normal Sixth Form requirements include a Grade 6 or above in GCSE Design Technology. In exceptional cases for students who have not taken GCSE DT, yet have a very strong portfolio, we would consider their application at interview.

Student Testimonial

Testimonial in the pipeline

Other courses of interest

• English
• Art
• History

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