Product Design A Level

Do you want to make the world a better place for consumers? Do you look at some products and think you could have done better? Well, perhaps you have the vision and attention to detail needed for a career in product design.

A Level Product Design enables you to combine an understanding of materials and manufacturing processes with your own creative visions by taking charge of the design process.

You will develop analytical and evaluative skills alongside drawing and practical abilities, giving you the power to solve design problems.

Importantly, you will need to be able to sketch clearly, think creatively and be able to solve problems effectively in order to succeed on this course.

At Brock we have an excellent success rate in helping students of Product Design reach their full potential.

We have a well-equipped workshop that you can access outside of lesson time, plus experienced teachers and a helpful technician.

Your abilities will increase thanks to interesting projects that develop key skills in written analysis, traditional drawing, computer aided design and manufacturing.

Throughout this course you will compile a portfolio of work that evidences your new knowledge and skills.

Importantly, you will become astute at product analysis where you evaluate a product for form, function, materials, construction and quality.

You will also spend time exploring design and manufacturing considerations in order to appreciate what is practical, economical and possible.

There will be lots of practical demonstrations and close support in the workshop.

In the second year you will have a free choice of project.

• Develop your knowledge and skills related to research, design, making, testing and evaluating to give you a better all-round understanding.

• Explore materials, processes and health & safety considerations to improve your awareness of key aspects and issues.

• Analyse the work of famous designers to understand their thought processes, helping you refine your approach.

• Learn model making, computer aided design and manufacturing skills used in industry.

• Gain awareness and learn from wider influences on design and technology, including historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic factors.

Five GCSEs at grade 4 and above with a minimum average GCSE score of 4.0, including:
•    Maths
•    English Language
•    Science
•    DT or Engineering grade 5 (if taken)

In addition, experience of construction projects or woodworking at home is desirable.
 

This qualification can lead to a variety of different career pathways, including product design, engineering and architecture.

It could also form part of your route into university, especially if you wish to pursue a subject like Engineering.

Some students progress to taking advanced apprenticeships with local companies or gain employment directly in the technology and engineering sector in their local area.

• Mathematics A Level
• Business A Level
• Electronics A Level