Course Overview
Please note: you will make your selection of three A Levels once you have progressed into the application process.
Product design (3D design) helps you take a broad view of design and technology, develop the capacity to appreciate engineering design, production of goods and appreciate the complex relations between design, materials, manufacture and marketing.
You will gain a good understanding of design theory, movements and develop an insight into well-known designers, and develop an appreciation of the design process from concept ideas, research and development through model making, freehand and CAD drawings to the realisation and making of the final product.
You will learn how design prototypes can be manufactured into the products we use in our everyday lives. This will include the study of materials and their properties, production processes and modern manufacturing systems.
There is a big practical element of the course where you will be working in the design workshop.
Topics may include:
- Materials, components, and application
- Design theory
- Designers, styles, and movements
- CAD and design drawing
- Learning through designing and making
- Design and manufacture
- Design and making practice.
All students are expected to purchase safety shoes, overalls, safety glasses and sketchbook, which will be used throughout both years. These can be purchased via the College online store when you enrol.
Assessment Methods
You will be assessed through written examinations, practical projects and coursework. With regular internal assessment taking place as the course unfolds.
Your final A Level exam will be made up of two/three exam papers covering the entire programme at the end of year two.
Progression Options
An A Level in design technology is an excellent route to university in subjects such as engineering or product design.
Other routes include HND, degree or advanced engineering or design & technology related Apprenticeships or employment.
Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs in the 9 to 4 range including English.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
