Design & Technology

Overview

Problem solvers wanted!

A Level Design & Technology allows you to develop practical skills and demonstrate creative thinking. It seeks to widen your knowledge and understanding of the designed world that we all live in. You will have the opportunity to create new ideas and develop your design and technology capability.

For further information or to discuss in more detail, please contact:

Mr D Farr Head of Design & Technology dfarr@kgs.org.uk

Follow us on Twitter: @KGS_DesignTech

How is the course assessed?

In the Lower Sixth, you will develop your knowledge and skills with two distinct practical projects. There are also theory topics that will be assessed in the Upper Sixth examination. There are two assessed units in the Upper Sixth.

Component 1

This is an externally assessed examination which lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes and is worth 50% of the qualification. It includes topics such as: Materials and Properties, Manufacturing Processes and Techniques, Digital Technologies, Industrial Manufacturing, Environmental and Sustainable Issues in Design, Legislation and Laws, Information Handling and Modelling.

Component 2

This is a coursework project which is also worth 50% of the qualification. You will have the opportunity to design and make a substantial product of your choice. You should adopt a commercial design approach to your work and include the views of a client or user group into the decision making at various stages of the design and build process.

Examination board

Edexcel

Useful attributes

A keen interest in and passion for design is essential, and you should study the works of iconic designers such as Dieter Rams, Jonathan Ives or James Dyson. An investigative nature of everyday objects will help you to develop your perceptive analysis skills. A visit to the New Designers exhibition each summer is a ‘must do’ as a date in the calendar.

Personal development

It is helpful for you to have studied GCSE Design & Technology before starting the course. Mathematics, Science and Art & Design all support this subject and should be considered when selecting options.

Future directions

There are numerous degree courses and careers associated with Design & Technology such as Product Design, Engineering, Automotive Design, Interior Design, Graphic Design, Architecture, Furniture Design, Jewellery and Ceramics.

A career in this field can be rewarding and extremely fulfilling.