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Design and Technology - Product Design A level

Highworth Grammar School

Highworth Grammar School, Maidstone Road, Ashford, TN24 8UD

GCE A/AS Level or Equivalent
Level 3
Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies

Available start dates

Available start dates

Tuesday, 01 September 2026
Highworth Grammar School
2 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours
NULL

Application Instructions

***** Please note, applications have now closed for September 2026 Sixth Form Admissions *****


Applications Open - Midday, 9 January 2026

Applications Close - Midday, 6 February 2026

School Entry Requirements: -

As a basic entry requirement to join our Sixth Form, you must have achieved at least 6 GCSE subjects at Grade 6 or above including:

at least a Grade 5 in English

at least a Grade 5 in Mathematics

and the specific entry requirements for each of your subjects.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices ***Now Closed***

Course Summary

Students will:
• initiate design solutions, develop, test and trial working models and prototypes
• develop and sustain imagination, innovation and flair when working with concepts and materials
• develop an understanding of contemporary design and technological practices and consider the uses and effects of new technologies and modern materials
• develop thinking skills, financial capability, enterprise and entrepreneurial skills

Course Details

Course Content

  • Students will develop intellectual curiosity about the design and manufacture of products. They will explore, design, create and evaluate innovative solutions in response to realistic design contexts
  • Students will develop knowledge and understanding of the core technical, designing and making principles for product design
  • Subject content is split into three key sections with suggested opportunities to deliver relevant integrated mathematics and science skills

How will it be delivered and assessed?

Two examination papers worth 50% of the total marks (Mathematics and Science contribute 15%) and Nonexamination assessment (NEA) worth 50% of the total marks. The NEA consists of a single design and make activity. Students are free to choose and develop their own design.

Paper 1: Written examination of 2 hours at the end of Year 13 (100 marks – 25% of A Level)
Paper 2: Written examination of 2 hours at the end of Year 13 (100 marks – 25% of A Level)
Non-Examination Assessment: Approximately 40 hours in Year 13 (100 Marks – 50% of A Level)

Students will undertake a substantial design and make task and produce a final prototype. The context of the task will be determined by the student.

Assessment criteria include:
  • Exploration
  • Designing
  • Making
  • Analysis and Evaluation

Entry requirements

Candidates should have studied GCSE Product Design (or the equivalent) and achieved Grade 6 or above. Students who have not studied a Design related subject will be considered on an individual basis. You need to:
• be able to cope with the coursework commitments
• be organised to cope with a structured approach and frequent deadlines
• be good at and enjoy problem solving tasks
• be creative and pay attention to detail
• be able to present work to a high standard
• be competent with ICT and willing to extend your skills

Additional information


For more courses like this, check our courses page.