Design and Technology (Product Design)

Course summary

You will study a broad course on a Design and technology subject, which builds on the core of what you have been taught across GCSE and focuses on the designing and making of products including materials like timbers, metals, and polymers, as well as papers and boards and even some electronics and fabrics. Students should ideally have followed a GCSE Design & Technology course, preferably in Product Design, Communication, Electronic Systems, or Fashion and Textiles, however, it is not mandatory and will need to be discussed with the Head of Department. Product Design is all about designing and making products in an innovative and creative way. It’s about learning how things are made. You will be designing and making a solution to a problem set by the department through designing, modeling, and practical sessions utilizing the subject knowledge that runs alongside it. Year 12 is used to build a foundation of new content through some high-level grade style projects which will stretch and challenge you to produce something amazing and get your teeth into it! It will give you a strong basis of knowledge as well as making skills and folder work, which can then be applied to the Coursework element in Year 13 which we start at the end of Year 12 and counts for 50% of your final grade. You will have to produce a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to research, design, develop, make, and evaluate your product of choice. Students studying Product Design will need to provide materials for coursework or contribute towards the cost of parts for practical work as you will keep whatever you make.