Course Content
You will be designing and making products and a folder of work using creative presentation techniques and skills and then learn CAD software (computer aided design) to design your products. You will be using materials and processes to make the products hand and using laser cutters, 3d printers and many other workshop tools and materials. You will learn about manufacturing processes (how products are made), materials (what products are made from) and environmental awareness (product lifecycle, recycling).
Component 1: Personal investigation
- Assessed
- Started in June of Y12 and completed by middle of January of Y13
- 96 marks
- 60% of A-level
- Non-exam assessment (NEA) set and marked by the centre and moderated by AQA during a visit to the centre. Visits will normally take place in June.
Component 2: Externally set assignment:
- Response to an externally set assignment
- Assessed
- Preparatory period plus 15 hours supervised time
- 96 marks
- 40% of A-level
- Non-exam assessment (NEA) set by AQA, marked by the centre and moderated by AQA during a visit to the centre. Visits will normally take place in June.
| Component | Assessment | Duration | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1: Personal Investigation | Non-exam assessment | No time limit | 60% |
| 2: Externally set assignment | Non-exam assessment | Preparatory period + 15 hours supervised time | 40% |
Key Info
- Start Date: September 2024
- Awarding Body: AQA
- Study Mode: Full Time
- Course Length: 2 Years
Entry Requirements
TBC
Complementary Subjects
The course compliments Graphics, Art & Design, English Language, English Literature, Computing, ICT, Psychology and the sciences.
Career Opportunities
Product Design leads to University or apprentice based careers, from creative arts and design to engineering, including Product design; Interior design; Industrial design; Automotive design; Computer based design; Architecture; Teaching; Advertising; Manufacturing; Engineering (aerospace, F1, industrial, construction, transport infrastructure), and STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths) careers. Design is one of the top 3 most popular courses/careers at university/college.