Product Design

Product Design focuses on historical, social, cultural, environmental, and economic influences on design and technology, whilst allowing students opportunities to put their learning into practice by producing their own prototypes.

Students will gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer alongside the knowledge and skills sought by employers and higher education providers.

Product Design is intended to support students in their progression to careers in the creative and engineering sectors. Key areas developed include research and analytical skills, creativity, time management, graphic design skills, technical knowledge (including CAD & CAM) and problem solving. It also teaches students the benefits of bot an independent and collaborative approach to design.

I enjoy the challenge of solving real world problems. I like to see my designs develop and I enjoy seeing the outcomes when they are successful.

Year 13 student

Qualification	A Level Product Design
Awarding body	AQA
Year 12	Theory is taught over the two years covering content such as materials manufacturing, use of computer systems in industry, famous designers and environmental design. Students develop their skills in design and practical skills working on set project themes including: Pewter cast jewellery 3D printed design Cast concrete interior design Structural lamp Architectural project
Year 13	Theory is taught over the two years covering content such as materials manufacturing, use of computer systems in industry, famous designers and environmental design. Students continue to develop their design and practical skills with their own project theme. Past themes have included: Creating furniture Musical instruments Sports equipment Mechanical engineering
Assessment	Exam 1 (30%) – Technical Principles Exam 2 (20%) – Designing and making principles Non-Examined Assessment (50%) – A “design and make” project of the students’ choice.