Product Engineering and Design A Level

AQA A Level Design & Technology: Product Design

This course offers a broad introduction to materials, their working properties, and industrial applications. Students explore a wide range of processes, modern and emerging technologies, and apply mathematics and scientific principles to real-world design problems. Throughout the two years, they use this knowledge to design and manufacture a variety of prototypes and working models.

Year 12: Students begin the course with a series of smaller skill builder projects designed to develop workshop techniques, graphical communication, modelling, and presentation skills. They then spend time making full use of the wide range of workshop equipment available in the department, carrying out a series of practical tests with different materials and processes to build confidence and technical understanding. Following this, students complete a main design project: a luminaire inspired by the work of engineers, designers, or architects. This experience equips them with the knowledge, practical skills, and creative independence required for success in the Year 13 Major Project.

Year 13: Students develop their own design brief and undertake a substantial major project in an area they are passionate about. This gives them the opportunity to demonstrate creativity, independence, and advanced technical skills.

Paper 1 - 30%, 120 marks

• Technical Principles

Paper 2 - 20%, 80 marks

• Designing and Making Principles

Non-Exam Assessment (Coursework) - 50%, 100 marks

• Practical application of technical principles, designing and making principles

Mathematics is frequently used throughout the course — both in the written exams and within coursework projects (for example when working with materials, forces, tolerances, costs, and data analysis).

15% of the total A-level marks directly assess mathematics at GCSE higher tier level. A solid foundation in Maths is therefore essential, and we recommend choosing Core Maths to sit alongside Product Design if you are not taking A-level Maths.

A minimum of five GCSEs at Grade 9 – 4. This MUST include:

• Mathematics Grade 4 AND

• English Language Grade 5 OR

• English Literature Grade 5 AND English Language Grade 4

Plus

Grade 5 in a D&T subject OR an equivalent demonstration of expertise

During the course, students develop a wide range of skills including analysis, evaluation, creative problem-solving, design development and practical manufacturing. They gain a strong grounding in engineering principles and learn how to produce high-quality products that reflect both technical precision and creativity. Alongside this, students acquire an in-depth understanding of manufacturing processes and techniques, apply mathematics in real-world design and engineering contexts, and explore the role that design and technology play in shaping everyday life. The course also develops knowledge of materials, design history, and the ways in which engineering and design have influenced, and continue to influence, the way we live and work.

The course can lead on to further education or careers in the following areas: Product Design, Product Engineering, Engineering, Architecture, Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Furniture Design, Set/Prop Design, Interior Designer, Production Engineer, Software Designer, Project Manager and Web Design.