Design & Technology: Product Design A Level
Qualification
A Level
Awarding Body
WJEC
Entry Criteria
6 grade C’s at GCSE, including a grade CC in GCSE Maths and a grade CC in GCSE English Language and Literature. A C grade in Art or DT at GCSE, if taken.*
Design & Technology: Product Design A Level Overview
Design & Technology at A Level provides learners with opportunities to develop a broad skill set, opening pathways to careers in fields like engineering, architecture, graphics, fashion or product design, manufacturing, aerospace, computing, carpentry, and more, as well as opportunities in teaching, product development, and freelance design.
A Level Design & Technology sets a solid foundation for learner’s future careers. Cultivating a mindset of innovation and adaptability is crucial in our ever-evolving technological landscape. Whether learners aim to work in established companies, start their ventures, or engage in freelance design, the skills and knowledge gained from this qualification will culminate in greater specialisation at A level.
AS Level – 40% of the A level
50% Non Examined Assessment (NEA) 80 Marks: Design and Make task Approx 40 hours
Informal sketchbook. Formal Portfolio and Product
50% Examination (2.5 hours) 80 Marks: A mix of structured and extended writing questions to assess the understanding of:
– Core Technical Principles of Design
– Specialist Product Design Principles and Materials
– History of Design, Design decisions and wider issues in Design Technology
A2: Level (Year 2) 60% of the A Level
50% NEA 100 Marks: One design and make task based on a WJEC Contextual Challenge.
50% EXAM 100 Marks: A mix of structured and extended writing and design questions
With the wide skill set you will gain in Design Technology you can take the course in to many different academic and vocational careers.
The main areas of interest and career pathways for students are:
- Engineering (All types) Architecture
- Graphic or Fashion Design
- Product design & Manufacturing
- Aerospace
- Engineering
- Computing and Technical Design
- Carpentry, Plumbing, Mechanics and Construction
- Product Development
- Buying and Selling
- Teaching
- Freelance Design
- Science and Maths
6 grade C’s at GCSE, including a grade CC in GCSE Maths and a grade CC in GCSE English Language and Literature. A C grade in Art or DT at GCSE, if taken.*
Subjects marked with a * will accept the equivalent grade in a discursive subject like History or Religious
Studies as an alternative for GCSE English Language and Literature.
