The Design Technology Department

 

AS and A Level Design Technology

The Design Technology A Level builds on the experience of GCSE and allows students to further their studies through Product Design, which offers students the opportunity to study, propose and realise prototype solutions to designing and making problems closely linked to the real world of product/system manufacture. The course offers candidates opportunities to acquire and demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the world of designing and making. Students will develop an awareness of the responsibilities that designers and technologists have and the potential that exists to change and shape lives. Candidates wishing to study Design and Technology (Product Design) should have studied a GCSE course in either Product Design, Resistant Materials, Graphic Products, Textiles, Systems and Control, or Electronic Products. They are expected to have achieved at least a grade B. GCSE studies give candidates an elementary knowledge of the core elements required for Advanced Level. Information Technology skills, an interest in working with materials and a creative mind are also deemed essential.

The course is made up of four units. Two units are sat in the Lower Sixth and make up the AS course. The final two units are sat in the Upper Sixth and make up the full A level course. The course contains design and practical projects; including commercial and industrial applications, theory on materials, components and design influences and a product study on an area of design of the student’s choosing.

In the Lower Sixth there is a written exam (2 hours) on materials and components which is worth 50% of the AS level and 25% of the A level and there is coursework which is portfolio and practical (50 hours) which is 50% of the AS level and 25% of the A level.

In the Upper Sixth there is a written exam (2 hours) on design and manufacture worth 25% of the A level and the coursework (60 hours) based on portfolio and practical is worth 25% of the A level.

Higher Education and Career Opportunities

Whether students continue their study with a degree course in Industrial Design or broaden their skills in either the Arts or Sciences, A Level Design & Technology offers a sound base for future learning. There are many, excellent career opportunities for candidates leaving the College with an A Level in Design & Technology, as they will have sound problem-solving skills and practical ability. Career options include Interior, Product, Industrial, Environmental or Fashion Design; Graphic and Visual Design, Sports Equipment Design; Communication, Media, Marketing or Animation; Manufacturing, Engineering or the Textiles Industry.

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