A level Design and Technology: Product Design
Sandbach College
Why study this course?
A Level Design & Technology seeks to develop students’ knowledge, understanding, skills and application for designing products. Product Design encompasses a wide range of disciplines but is firmly rooted in the skills required to design and make high quality products that satisfy wants and needs by enhancing our day-to-day lives. Importantly, this gives students the opportunity to demonstrate their design capability. Students will study all aspects of Product Design to develop their capacity to design and make products and appreciate the complex relations between design, materials, manufacture and marketing. There is a practical approach to the subject with students embarking on a number of design and production projects over both years.
Sandbach College at Sandbach High School Entry Requirements
We ask that all students achieve grade 4 or equivalent (a Level 2 pass) in at least 4 subjects, alongside the following subject specific entry requirements:
- Grade 4 in GCSE Product Design
- or
- Grade 5 in Maths (or must take Core Maths if 4)
What will I learn on this course?
The subject is varied and broad, but has a strong focus on materials, manufacturing and associated issues. You will also look into aspects of design history and issues critical to the design of a product, such as ergonomics. Whilst completing the coursework you will be given the opportunity to develop your drawing skills, design modelling, 3D CAD and practical skills. Furthermore, you will be given the opportunity to control the direction of your projects, control the inherent uncertainty involved with this and take risks in your designs.
Examinations & Coursework
2 examination papers (50% of the A level)
Assessed coursework (50% of the A level)
Potential career paths
The design and manufacture of consumer products is an interesting and important aspect of our lives. Product Design provides a sound foundation for further design-related studies at university and apprentice level. It would be useful for students who wish to seek employment in design, manufacturing or creative area such as architecture, civil Engineering, conceptual design, interior design, illustration, product design, industrial design, set design, teaching or automotive design.