D&T provides an understanding of the process of designing and of the factors which influence design in a commercial context. It enhances the student's knowledge of industrial manufacturing processes and materials while increasing awareness the social implications of design and manufacture. It also offers the opportunity for students to develop skills in designing related to industry. It is a fun course which most pupils appear to get a lot from. It will develop life long skills such as independent thinking, analytical and planning skills.
GCSE Design and Technology:
D&T 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. The GCSE course offers you the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills as well as evaluating products currently available to the consumer.
There is an emphasis on designing and manufacturing with plastics, although some woods and metals will be used where appropriate. You will also look into ways to present and package the final products you manufacture. This GCSE will let you design and make quality products in quantity. This course allows you to carry out designing and making activities through metal, plastics and wood, card and paper. You may also use electronics but any suitable material can be used in the manufacture of your products. As a school we will concentrate on the use of metal, plastics and wood, card and paper however, all materials may be tested in the examination paper.
You will also research marketing, consumer protection, product development and industrial processes and use this information to help you develop viable designs.
Where can D&T lead?
D&T is the perfect course for leading on to studying Product Design at University. It also provides a great base for interior design, fashion design, graphic design, architecture and engineering courses.
We understand that University is not for everyone though and that there are other options. Many ex-pupils who have studied Design and Technology have become very successful through undertaking apprenticeships and going on to college.
Career Paths From GCSE onto 6th Form or College to take A level Product Design or Engineering and then onto Further Education to study to degree level leading on to potential careers in: