Design and Technology - Product Design A Level

Applications Open: - 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - We would, ideally, like applications to be submitted by Thursday 8th January 2026, when planning for the timetable will begin, but applications will be accepted after this date

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

Minimum Entry Requirements

The admissions criteria for the Sixth Form are as follows:

- A minimum of 6 separately identifiable GCSE subjects (or equivalent) at an average grade of 5.5 or above

- These 6 subjects must include at least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and at least a grade 4 in Mathematics

- You will require a grade 6 or above in most subjects you wish to study at A Level

- To study Mathematics, Modern Foreign Languages or a Science subject you will require a grade 7

- To study Economics a grade 7 or above in Mathematics is required and a 6+ or above in Business or a related subject

- Students may be able to study a Science subject with a 6 grade but their 4th option choice must be STEM Access forming part of your Personal Enrichment Pathway

- For Further Mathematics you will need an 8 or 9

- Short Courses count as half a GCSE

- A positive attitude in your chosen subjects and a respect for school aims, objectives and ethos

- Commitment to the expectations of the Sixth Form and the school community

- Students will not be admitted if they have not completed the appropriate paperwork

This creative and thought provoking course is based on the design and manufacture of products for everyday use. You need to have a real interest in how the things around us work as well as how and what they are made from. Product Design requires both dedication and hard work to achieve success.

The course gives students the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in a number of careers, especially those in the creative industries.

They will investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put their learning in to practice by producing products of their choice.

Students will gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, alongside the knowledge and skills sought by higher education and employers.

The qualification is Linear. In the first year you will develop your graphical & technical skills using both computer and traditional methods. You will also produce several scale models and working prototypes. In the second year Students will sit all examinations and submit their non-examination assessment work which will include one major project with a prototype as the outcome.

UNIT OUTLINE

Component 1: Written examination

Paper 1: Technical Principles 2.30 hours 30% of A level award

Paper 2: Designing and Making Principles 1.30 hours 20% of A level award

Component 2: Substantial design and make task

Non-exam assessment: 45 hours 50% of A level award

Evidence: written (digital) design portfolio and photographic evidence of progress and completion of final prototype approximately 45 A3 pages.

The course is 50% practical coursework, 50% written exam

The admissions criteria for the Sixth Form are as follows:

- A minimum of 6 separately identifiable GCSE subjects (or equivalent) at an average grade of 5.5 or above

- These 6 subjects must include at least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and at least a grade 4 in Mathematics

- DT GCSE: Preferred: Grade 6 Minimum: Grade 5 and Maths GCSE: Preferred: Grade 6 Minimum: Grade 5

Product design equips students with the skills to analyse, evaluate, design, plan and make. The subject fits well with Art and the STEM subjects and is a good foundation for careers such as Fashion, Architecture, Marketing, Graphic Design, Engineering and Industrial Design. It is recommended that students should have the skills and knowledge associated with GCSE Design Technology or equivalent to be suited to this course. However, a willingness to study around the subject and to design, evaluate and develop skills with careful thought and reflection are essential.

“No matter how crazy it is, you should always try to bring it to life.”

Ann Makosinski – Inventor of the Hollow Flashlight (works from the heat of the human hand) – 2013.