Design & Technology: Product Design A Level
Qualification
AS & A2
Results
A* - E grade: 93.3%
Awarding Body
WJEC
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 C in GCSE Maths and a grade C in GCSE English. Art or DT at GCSE is desirable, not essential.
A grade C in a discursive subject like History, Religious Studies or English Literature can be used as an alternative for English.