A Level: Product Design

Why study this subject?

A Level Product Design is a challenging and very rewarding qualification that has designing and making at the heart of the course. It encompasses a wide range of design disciplines but is firmly rooted in the skills required to design and make high quality products. It allows students to communicate through design. Product Design emphasises two key factors: creativity and sustainability. Students will develop their research, analysis, product development, project planning and evaluation skills.

Where can this subject lead?

This course is for those who are interested in a career in technology, engineering , Industrial Design or marketing. It is an enjoyable and relevant course for the developing technical world we live in. Students studying this course often go on to a wide range of degree courses including: Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Fashion, Automotive Design, Architecture, and Engineering (mechanical, automotive, aeronautical). An increasing number of students are pursuing Higher Level Apprenticeships.

The course will include: Technical drawing and sketching tuition, learning to design products that function well, a range of practical manufacturing tasks, developing Knowledge and understanding of materials and manufacturing processes that designers use and improving the ability to understand the impact designers can have on the world around them.

To join the Sixth Form there is an entry criteria of five standard passes at GCSE (at least a Grade 4). This must include at least a Grade 4 in English Language and Maths at GCSE. Students will need to gain at least a Grade 4 in the subjects they would like to study at A Level.

Further study at university or college on a variety of Industrial Design or Technology based courses. A good combination with Maths/Physics for entry onto a wide range of Engineering courses in higher education.