Design and Technology A Level 3

Applications Open: - 8th October 2025

Applications Close:- 20th August 2026

How to Apply: - Please contact The Skinners’ School directly to apply. We do not accept applications via KentChoices

Please see here for more information about our Sixth Form and to complete an application form.

Product design is about being creative and innovative, and making informed decisions about which materials or processes would best be used whilst designing and making functional and elegant products that are easy and intuitive to use.

The courses offered provide an opportunity for students to develop their own design and manufacturing skills through designing tasks and practical coursework projects. Their studies will enable them to become familiar with the properties and uses of a range of materials and lead them to a greater understanding of current industrial production methods. Through the use of Computer Aided Design (CAD) software and Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM) students will be able to develop their design proposals and manufacture these to a high standard.

Students will also develop their understanding of design and manufacturing from a historical perspective and seek to develop an understanding of industrial and commercial practices through product analysis. Students with lively and enquiring minds and who wish to gain an insight into how products are made would thrive on this course. This course will also be ideal for pupils aspiring to embark on a career as a product designer, an industrial designer, an architect, or a wide range of engineering disciplines.

Paper 1

• This theory unit, based on technical principles, is assessed by a 2.5 hour written exam which is externally set by AQA. Weighting - 30% of total A Level marks.

Paper 2

• This theory unit, based on designing and making principles is assessed by a 1.5 hour written exam which is externally set by AQA. Weighting - 20% of total A Level marks.

Non-exam assessment

• This A Level coursework module and is internally assessed and externally moderated by AQA. Pupils will spend approximately 45 hours designing and making a product in response to a context chosen by each student. They will support their product with an extensive electronic portfolio of work. Weighting - 50% of total A level marks

We recommend at least a grade 6 at GCSE to study for an A-level.

Design and Technology has the potential to open up a a wide range of careers in the creative, engineering and manufacturing industries. It is also excellent preparation for careers in many other fields e.g. medicine, law and computer science. Careers in Design, Manufacturing or Engineering require the practical and problem solving skills that D&T teaches and the demand for people in these areas of work is growing. Skills, such as teamwork and time management are highly prized by employers.