product design
A Level
Course Overview
The Product Design A Level is a creative qualification that supports the development of both practical skills and theoretical knowledge, providing students with the confidence to succeed in a number of careers.
Students will investigate a range of influences on Design and Technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put their learning into practice by producing a range of exciting projects.
The 2-year course is linear, with the exams (worth 50% of the qualification) and the NEA (coursework- worth 50%) completed in Year 2.
Target Audience
This course would be suitable for students who enjoy being creative and problem solving to create functional prototypes.
This course will develop your practical, problem solving, CAD/ CAM and theoretical skills.
The structure of the course enables learners to identify their own areas of interest and produce appropriate work.
Year 12 Units
Paper 1: materials, characteristics & uses
In this unit you will develop an understanding of the key material categories, understanding the material properties that make them suitable for specific uses.
Paper 1: advanced materials
In this unit you will develop an understanding of smart, modern & composite materials, as well as biodegradable polymers.
Paper 1: enhancements, processes & finishes
In this unit you will develop an understanding of the enhancement of materials, as well as key manufacturing processes and the use of finishes.
Paper 1: industry, requirements & standards
In this unit you will develop an understanding of modern industrial & commercial practice, as well as CAD/CAM and Health & Safety.
Paper 2: design methods, influences & issues
In this unit you will develop an understanding of design methods & processes, design influence, socio-economic influences, developments in technology as well as social, moral and ethical issues.
Paper 2: design processes & evaluation
In this unit you will develop an understanding of the product lifecycle, design processes and critical analysis.
Year 13 Units
nea (coursework)
This coursework unit is worth 50% of your overall A Level. It involves identifying a problem for you to solve through research, design, development, testing and evaluating.
Paper 1: feasibility, design, manufacture & use
In this unit you will develop an understanding of designing for manufacturing, maintenance, repair and disposal.
Paper 2: design processes & evaluation
In this unit you will develop an understanding of the product lifecycle, design processes and critical analysis and evaluation.
Paper 2: Manufacturing
In this unit you will develop an understanding of selecting appropriate tools, equipment and processes as well as accuracy in design and manufacture.
Paper 2: wider issues & standards
In this unit you will develop an understanding of responsible design, design for manufacture, project management and the national & international standards in Product Design.
sample lesson
example work
Student testimonials
gallery
Support sessions
A weekly support session is run to help catch up on work as well as to allow pupils to continue with their practical development. Support sessions can be arranged with your teachers with prior notification.
Higher Education Progression Routes
product design
You’ll be encouraged to take a creative and innovative approach to problem-solving, while also addressing the functional, social and economic needs of your design.
engineering
You will develop an expert technical knowledge, while being encouraged to think creatively about design problems.
architecture
Investigate the design, refurbishment, use and re-use of existing and new build structures with an emphasis on building technology. Produce creative solutions from artistic concepts through to detail design.
interior design
Interior designers take a holistic approach to space, designing every element from structural interventions to specifying materials. Working to a level similar to that of an architect, they design for the retail industry, commercial offices, art galleries, private homes and the hotel and leisure sector.
graphic design
You'll bring your creative ideas to life using the latest software and professional tools. You’ll examine the core principles of graphic design, learning how to apply your talent using traditional and digital media.
design & craft
You will develop into a creative professional such as craftsperson, jeweller, ceramicist, textile artist, designer-maker, glass artist, designer, researcher, consultant, curator, buyer, stylist or educator.
Marketing, Advertising, Branding
A hands-on course where you can explore the full spectrum of three-dimensional practices from studio ceramics and jewellery to products and furniture.
sculpture
A course that teaches you to value the importance of ‘thinking through making’, using practical experimentation and different critical approaches.
art & design
You will undertake projects to develop your own independent practice, whether your interest lies in photography, installation, print, digital media, sculpture, illustration, curatorial practice, textiles, drawing, sound, graphic design, public art or three-dimensional design.
Future Careers
product designer
Product designers use their design skills and technical knowledge to improve the way that existing products work and look, and/or produce them at a lower cost. They may also be involved in designing entirely new products.
architect
An architect is a person who plans, designs and oversees the construction of buildings.
interior designer
Interior designers make indoor spaces functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing by determining space requirements and selecting essential and decorative items, such as colours, lighting, and materials.