Design Engineering

Course summary

Why study GCE Design Engineering at William Farr School? Design Engineering focuses on high-quality engineering practice and learning through hands-on experience. At its core, it is about solving real-life problems through meaningful, practical projects. The course bridges science, maths, and creative design, making it ideal for students who enjoy applying technical knowledge to real-world engineering challenges. Students work with cutting-edge electronics and advanced CAD tools, and have access to modern facilities such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC equipment. Teaching is delivered by staff with real-world engineering experience as well as expertise in moderating for the OCR exam board. Wherever possible, learning is rooted in authentic engineering contexts. Previous enrichment activities have included visits to engineering laboratories at University of Sheffield, Festo Pneumatics, and the highly regarded Barcelona study tour. Students are also encouraged to take part in nationally recognised events such as the Big Bang Fair, where William Farr has a strong record of success, and attend events hosted by organisations such as the IET and IMechE. What will you study in Design Engineering? The course is divided equally between theory (50%) and the NEA (50%). Theory topics include design strategies, manufacturing techniques, materials, mechanical design, electronics, and structural design. The NEA involves designing and making a product of your choice, provided it addresses a genuine real-world need. It requires commitment but is highly rewarding.