Design Technology

Course outline

AQA

The course contains content which will jump into science and maths giving contextual understanding and application, this will reflect 15% of the examination content. Core technical knowledge of design principles, technical manufacture, and materials will form the basis of the remaining theoretical content. The course is taught in a linear format with both examination papers taken on completion of the second year.

Examination Paper 1 - 2.5 hrs - 30%

• Mixture of short and extended responses

• Technical principles

Examination Paper 2 - 1.5 hrs - 20%

• Mixture of short and extended responses

• Product analysis

• Commercial Manufacture

Extended Coursework Design and Make - 50%

• Students own design context

Studying A Level Product Design is an opportunity to satisfy your creative appetite combined with a healthy serving of academic rigour. The course provides a thought provoking qualification giving students the theoretical knowledge, confidence and practical skill to succeed in any number of careers. Students will develop their intellectual curiosity about the design and manufacture of products. They will investigate historical, social, environmental and economic influence on design, whilst enjoying opportunities to put their learning in to practice by creating innovative solutions to realistic design contexts.

The RHS Technology department is fully equipped with all modern manufacturing machinery required to make and prototype most products. With twin head 3D printers, 40W metal tube laser and a full sized 4 axis CNC router, whether you choose to prototype fully with CADCAM or more traditionally in the fully equipped modern workshop you have fantastic opportunities. The department is stocked with a wide variety of materials and resources and of course the expertise to help you access the equipment.

Students are encouraged to participate fully in the department and we really try to encourage the “can do and the more you put in and the more you get out” attitude to learning. A Level students can access the department facility outside of lesson time so long as a member of staff is present. Students are encouraged to engage in activities beyond the curriculum which might involve competitions, enterprise or enrichment activities.

Careers

• Product Designer

• Graphic Designer

• Architect

• Industrial Designer

• Creative Director

• Engineer

• Teacher

• TV and Film Set Designer

• Retail Manager

• Production Management

• Civil/Structural/Architectural

• Engineering

“Design Technology is the one subject which cohesively makes use of information and knowledge I have learnt in other curriculum areas. The opportunities for design are endless and only limited by my own imagination.”