(3D Design)
AS/A2 AQA

If you enjoy designing and making things, an AS or A Level in Product Design could provide you with a stimulating and enjoyable experience.  At AS you will gain and develop skills and knowledge in a range of materials, including textiles, and also develop an understanding of the broader issues for the designer, including the environmental sustainability of products and their manufacture.  A Level study offers you the opportunity to further develop the knowledge and practical skills from AS, alongside an understanding of the processes of commercial production and manufacture.

Course Outline
AS Level

• Unit 1 includes, for example, the physical and mechanical properties of a broad range of materials; ergonomics and anthropometrics; consumer safety; CAD/CAM and the life cycle of products. 
  Your knowledge will be assessed by a 2 hour examination.
• Unit 2 is coursework, which will consist of 3 projects.  You must demonstrate your ability to design and make products in a range of materials.  Graphical and other communication methods will also be assessed.

A2 Level

• Unit 3 includes, for example, planned obsolescence; industrial production, and the moral, economic, social and environmental responsibilities of designers.  Your knowledge will be assessed by a 2 hour examination.
• Unit 4 is coursework - the manufacture of a single product (in any appropriate material), involving substantial designing and making.

Lessons are a mixture of designing and modelling, theory work, and practical work on projects.

Preferred Entry Requirements
Ideally GCSE Grade C or above in any Design and Technology area.  But more important is that you enjoy designing and making, take pride in your presentation, can meet deadlines and are willing to learn new skills.*

*Please note that your enrolment on to a particular course must be approved by the Head of that department.