St Edward's A Level Guide 2026

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY: PRODUCT DESIGN

AQA

The A Level Product Design course caters for creative and innovative pupils who are passionate about design, problem-solving, and the creation of practical solutions. Designers use new and emerging materials and technologies to design for the needs of a client and target market so that a product can be innovated. This human-centred design process starts with understanding a problem a consumer may face and ends in the development of a solution that is tailor-made to suit their needs. Solutions will be the outcome of rigorous research and application of knowledge and understanding. This course offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, preparing pupils for a wide range of opportunities in the world of design and beyond. • A knowledge and understanding of design theory and fabrication, including form, function, and aesthetics. • An exploration into the design process from concept to final product, including research, ideation, and iteration. • An awareness of how styles have changed throughout history and the work of influential designers including the opportunity to handle and analyse the latest products from contemporary designers. The specification offers candidates opportunities to acquire and demonstrate:

• Gaining proficiency in the use of various tools, equipment, and technologies, including CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software. • Learning about different materials and their properties, and how to select the appropriate material for a project. • Developing fabrication skills producing models and prototypes using a range of materials and techniques. • Understanding the importance of testing and refining designs through prototyping. • An awareness of industrial processes and manufacturing techniques that underpin the manufacture of products and systems within products. • Developing time management and organisational skills essential for successful project completion. This includes understanding the stages of project management, through planning, execution, and evaluation. • Exploring the impact of design on the environment and society. This extends to learning about sustainable practices and the ethical considerations in product design. • Awareness of the responsibilities of designers and technologists to mankind through an increasing knowledge of the potentials and hazards inherent in technological advancement.

Where it leads Studying AQA A Level Product Design (3D Design) opens a range of opportunities in higher education and various career paths. Related Design courses include Product, Industrial, User Experience, Interior, Graphic, Furniture and Sustainable Design. This A Level is also valuable for pupils planning to apply for Engineering or Architecture. Scheme of Assessment

COMPONENT

ASSESSMENT

%

Non-Exam assessment

• Practical assessment of technical principles and designing and making principles • A mixture of short answer and extended responses 2½ hr

50%

Theory Paper 1 Technical Principles Theory Paper 2 Designing and Making Principles

30%

• Section A: Product Analysis • Section B: Commercial Manufacture 1½ hr

20%

It is important to note that 15% of both exam papers are design-related Maths questions. So, although it is not mandatory to study the course, we recommend that pupils have a grade 6 or 7 in GCSE Maths.

ST EDWARD’S OXFORD

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