Course Level: GCSE
Exam Board: WJEC/EDUQAS
Specification link: Design & Technology
Entry requirements: No specific requirements
Course Description
GCSE Design and Technology: Product Design enables students to design and make products with creativity and originality, using a range of materials and techniques.
Packaging, labelling and instructions are encouraged as part of the complete design proposal and advertising, points of sale can be used to supplement the making experience and help create products which can be evaluated for their commercial viability.
Students can learn about contemporary technologies, materials and processes, as well as established practices.
There is a great emphasis on understanding and applying iterative design processes. Students will use their creativity and imagination to design and make prototypes that solve real and relevant problems, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values.
Students must also demonstrate maths and science skills throughout the qualification.
The course is split into two categories that are assessed through a written exam and as non- assessed tasks;
1 Technical principles
2. Designing and making principles
These are then further divided into core knowledge and understandingand in-depth knowledge and understanding.
Career Pathways
Successfully completion of the course will allow you to pursue further education at college, studying any of the following; Product Design at A Level, Photography A Level, Textiles A Level, 3D Design A Level.
It will also allow you to apply for University, to study either at BA/BSc qualification or a Foundation HND within a Design and Manufacturing sector.
Popular choices are: Product design, Interior design, Graphics design, Design and Innovation, Furniture design, lighting, Spatial design, Manufacturing, industrial design, Architectural Design, 3D Design
Job Opportunities
GCSE design allows you to being to develop a range of skills that will allow you to develop your understanding of working within the design industry. Some of the job opportunities are: Advertising art director, Automotive engineer., Graphic designer, Materials engineer, Product management, Production designer, theatre/television/film, Purchasing manager, Stylist, Interior designer
