Design and Technology: Product Design

Product Design Summary

This course is ideal for students who have studied Design and Technology at GCSE, or a similar vocational based qualification. The course is broad, and allows students to investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put their learning in to practice by producing prototypes of their choice. Students will gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, alongside the knowledge and skills sought by higher education and employers. This creative and thought-provoking qualification gives students the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in a number of careers. 

Entry Requirements

Grade 5 in GCSE English, Grade 5 in GCSE Maths, Grade 5 in GCSE Design & Technology, or equivalent vocational qualification.

Course Duration

2 years full-time

Specification

AQA 7552

How you will study

Design and Technology – Product Design will involve a range of study techniques and assessment methods. The course requires students to engage in both practical and theoretical study, these have been separated into:  

• Technical principles
• Designing and making principles

Students will work on their theoretical knowledge leading to assessment through 2 exam papers, whilst working on NEA (non-exam assessment) alongside this which takes the form of a design portfolio and final prototype manufacture. 

Component breakdown

Paper 1 – Technical principles – Exam – 120 marks – 30% of A-level 

Explore materials, processes, and health & safety considerations to improve awareness of key aspects and issues relating to the subject. Gain awareness and learn from wider influences on design and technology, including historical, social, cultural, environmental, and economic factors. 

Paper 2 – Designing and making principles – Exam – 80 marks – 20% of A-level 

Develop knowledge and skills related to research, design, making, testing, and evaluating. Analyse the work of famous designers to understand their thought processes, helping to refine approaches to design for within the NEA. Analyse and undertake model making, computer aided design and manufacturing skills used in industry. 

Non-exam assessment (NEA) – Design portfolio and final prototype – 100 marks – 50% of A-level 

Students must undertake a substantial design and make task and produce a final prototype based on a context and design brief developed by the student. Students will use a range of different materials and manufacturing techniques to help them develop their work.

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