A Level Design & Technology

A Level Design & Technology A Level Product Design A Level Product Design at Sandy Secondary School provides students with the opportunity to create and manufacture products using a wide range of materials and technology-based manufacturing techniques. Examined by AQA, this creative and hands-on course develops practical skills alongside design thinking and technical knowledge. Alongside woodwork, metal and plastics, students are encouraged to learn and use computer-aided design and manufacturing techniques, taking advantage of the department's excellent facilities. Year 12 consists mainly of practical skills development through five individual projects, with theory and exam content taught through this applied method. This approach allows for suitable depth and expansion of design awareness, progressing into more user-centred and context-driven project work. Entry requirements include at least a grade 4 pass at GCSE Design & Technology in Product Design, along with independent working skills and good Maths and English. A genuine interest in the subject, practical skills, and good organisation are also desirable qualities for success on this course. Assessment Structure Careers and Progression A Level Design & Technology provides an excellent foundation for a wide range of creative and technical career pathways. The combination of practical making skills, design thinking, and technical knowledge developed through this course is highly valued by employers and universities across the design and engineering sectors. Students from Sandy Secondary School have gone on to Art Foundation courses as a pre-university entry pathway, degree and HND courses in Design and related fields, and work experience and apprenticeship placements. The course develops the creative problem-solving abilities and technical confidence needed to succeed in product design, engineering, architecture, and many other design-related professions.