Design and Technology

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Qualification

AQA GCSE Design and Technology

Link to examining body: https://www.aqa.org.uk/

Link to specification: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/design-and-technology/gcse/design-and-technology-8552

An introduction to the course

Design and Technology leads to careers in Architecture, furniture making, product design or carpentry, among other design based jobs. The emphasis of this GCSE Design andTechnology course is on developing your own ideas through investigative research as well as designing and making. You should expect to spend at least 60% of your lesson time involved in practical  activities. A portfolio of product development is maintained by you, to demonstrate your

design work for the real world, analytical skills, evaluations and processes.  You will also gain a broad knowledge of theory which includes new and emerging technology, material and there properties and the impact of design on the environment.

What the course involves

Practical sessions will include:

  • Demonstrating knowledge of woods, metals, plastics, paper and card.
  • Making products that show creativity and originality,  using a range of materials such as woods, metals, plastics, paper and card.
  • The opportunity to use Computer Numerical Control (CNC) equipment such as vertical router, lathe, laser cutter and 3D printer.
  • Design and make activities such as small scale storage, wooden garden item and bottle openers.
  • Making a product of your choice which could include furniture, storage or lighting to name a few examples.
  • Testing and evaluating your product, for a specific client who you will work with throughout. 

Gained skills:

  • To select and use tools/equipment and processes to produce quality products.
  • To consider solutions to problems in the design and manufacture process.
  • To use tools and equipment safely.
  • To work accurately and efficiently in terms of time, materials and components.
  • To manufacture products applying quality control procedures.
  • To learn about and use Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM).
  • Through testing, modification and evaluation, check that the quality of the products are suitable for intended users and make  changes where necessary that would improve the product.
  • Working as part of a team when designing and making products.

How the course is assessed

50%  portfolio work and 50% written exam.

Career opportunities

It can be a basis for building skill related courses, construction, product design and engineering.

Post-16 opportunities

Product Design can lead to a course in product design or engineering at Post-16 at a higher level.

Required resources/equipment for the course

You will be expected the purchase a Designers essentials kit provided by the school.

For further information contact:

Miss Roe (Head of Design & Technology) and Mrs Bryce ( Second in Department)