Design and Technology AS/A Level 3

Applications Open: - 13th October 2025

Applications Close: - 18th November 2025

How to Apply: - Please apply directly to the school via our website www.twggs.kent.sch.uk. Follow the route 'Joining TWGGS', 'Joining The Sixth Form' to complete your application on Applicaa. For enquiries please contact admissions@twggs.kent.sch.uk.

We don't accept applications through Kent Choices.

Entry Requirements: - Entrance Criteria

Pupils entering the Sixth Form will be expected to have attained an average overall GCSE point score of at least 6 from their top 6 subjects. They must also achieve a minimum of a grade 5 in either English Language or Mathematics and a grade 4 in the other of English Language or Mathematics, and are usually expected to achieve at least a grade 7 in the subjects they wish to pursue at A level (or related subjects, as agreed by the school). In addition, pupils wishing to take Art or Design Technology will be expected to submit a portfolio of artwork and pupils wishing to take Music will be expected to have reached at least Grade 5 in their instrument or voice.

Offers will be made on the basis of predicted performance at GCSE, with the requirement that the above grades are achieved in the final examinations prior to entry to the Sixth Form and the pupil’s 3 or 4 chosen subjects being accommodated on the timetable, with no group size exceeding its maximum number of pupils.

All offers made during Year 11 are conditional on pupils meeting the grade criteria specified and will only become firm offers upon confirmation of actual GCSE results.

Exam Board: EDEXCEL

PRODUCT DESIGN

Applying creativity to a problem, making a functional item to improve our lives in some way, is hugely rewarding. From the moment we wake up, we all rely on technology and design; our phone, toothbrush, the bus to school or the classroom - everything is designed. In this digital age, it is essential we prepare the next generation to take on these challenges. Using 3D Computer Aided Design and CNC Manufacturing Techniques (3D Printer, Laser Cam), pupils will be able to realise their design solutions.

With an A Level in Design Technology you will have many relevant skills to discuss at interviews and apply to relevant courses beyond TWGGS. The Design Technology A Level will develop your ability to use creativity and imagination when applying design processes, modifying designs, and manufacturing prototypes that solve real world problems, considering others’ needs, aspirations and values. You will identify market needs and opportunities for new products, initiate and develop design ideas and make and test prototypes. You will acquire subject knowledge in Design and Technology, including how a product can be developed through the stages of prototyping, realisation and commercial manufacture. During the course you will develop an in-depth knowledge and understanding of materials, components and the processes associated with product design, testing and evaluation. You will also gain a critical understanding of the wider influences on Design and Technology, including cultural, economic, environmental, historical and social factors.

The course is taught in two components, as illustrated. Pupils will undertake a written exam at the end of the two year course. Each pupil will also produce a design portfolio illustrating the development of an idea to meet a specific design brief, leading to an architectural model or prototype. Their design portfolio will form an integral part of future interviews. TWGGS pupils have gained university places studying a range of courses:-

Architecture, civil engineering, product design, graphic design, interior design, mechanical engineering, textile design and foundation courses.

COMPONENT 1 - Principles of Design and Technology Topics 1-12

OVERVIEW

• Materials
  
• Performance characteristics of materials
• Processes and techniques
• Digital technologies
• Factors influencing the development of products
• Effects of technological developments
• Potential hazards and risk assessment
• Features of manufacturing industries
• Designing for maintenance and the cleaner environment
• Current legislation
• Information handling. Modelling and forward planning
• Further processes and techniques

ASSESSMENT

Written Examination 2½ hours

120 marks - 50% of the qualification

The paper includes calculations, short-open and open-response questions, as well as extended writing questions.

COMPONENT 2

There are four parts to the assessment covering the identification of a design problem, developing the design, making the prototype and evaluating both the design and the final prototype.

Non-examined assessment

120 marks - 50% of the qualification

The investigation report is internally assessed and externally moderated.

You could take this course to complement other advanced level courses such as Art and Design and Computing or to prepare for the A2 part of an Advanced GCE in Design and Technology, which could lead onto higher education in areas of design, technology, architecture or more general higher education courses. With further training, you could go into a job related to design and technology such as engineering, architecture, interior design, landscape design, graphic design, product design, aeronautical engineering, web design and fashion. You could also go straight into a job as the AS GCE is a recognised qualification that will encourage you to explore your creative mind and help you develop the basic skills, understanding and knowledge that many employers across lots of industries are looking for.