Technology & Design Department
Every great design begins with an even better story” — Lorinda Mamo, Designer
Welcome to the Technology & Design Department
Technology & Design provides students with the opportunity to solve real-world problems through creative thinking and practical skills.
Department Aims
- Develop creative, technical, and practical expertise to perform everyday tasks confidently.
- Build a strong knowledge base to design and manufacture high-quality prototypes safely.
- Foster a critical awareness of the social and environmental impacts of design.
GCSE Technology & Design
Focusing on Product Design, core study areas include mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic systems. Students engage with CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and computer-controlled machinery to create prototypes.
Assessment Overview
| Unit | Content | Assessment | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unit 1 | Core Content | External Exam | 25% |
| Unit 2 | Optional Areas | External Exam | 25% |
| Unit 3 | Design & Make Project 10-page portfolio & product | Controlled Assessment | 50% |
A-Level Product Design
Building directly on GCSE, encouraging students to overcome design challenges. AS Level focuses on redesigning commercial products using SolidWorks and CNC. A2 Level promotes innovative design and advanced manufacturing skills.
Course Structure
CCEA| Level | Module | Content | A-Level Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| AS | Unit 1 | Product Design (Exam) | 20% |
| Unit 2 | Product Development (Coursework) | 20% | |
| A2 | Unit 1 | Product Design (Exam) | 30% |
| Unit 2 | Design & Manufacture (Coursework) | 30% |
BTEC First (Level 2)
Engineering • Equivalent to 1 GCSE
- Year 11The Engineered World ExamEngineering Materials Assign
- Year 12Engineered Product AssignCAD Engineering Assign
BTEC National (Level 3)
Extended Cert • Equivalent to 1 A-Level
- Year 13Engineering Principles ExamProcess Safety (NWRC) Assign
- Year 14Product Design (NWRC) ExamCAD in Engineering Assign
Extra-Curricular Opportunities
Students participate in design competitions hosted by Sentinus and Merchant Taylors. Many have secured prestigious Arkwright Engineering Scholarships.
Future Pathways
A qualification in Technology & Design is highly valued for developing problem-solving skills, creativity, and adaptability.