Product Design

Applications Open: - Now

Applications Close: - Friday 13th February 2026 (This is the official deadline, when planning for the new timetable will begin; however, applications may still be accepted after this date.)

Entry Requirements: - 6 GCSE passes at Grade 5+, including a minimum of Grade 5 in Mathematics and English.

How to Apply: - Apply via KentChoices

Why study this subject?

Design and technology - product design is a creative and thought-provoking qualification which gives students the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in a number of careers; especially those in the STEM and creative industries. Students will investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put their learning into practice by producing products of their choice.

A Level design and technology - product design requires students to engage in both practical and theoretical study. This specification requires students to cover design and technology skills and the acquired knowledge includes:

• Core technical principles

• Core designing and making principles

• Additional specialist knowledge.

Imaginative practical work is at the heart of this subject, 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 the knowledge and understanding of the core technical, designing and making principles for product design.

Paper 1: Additional specialist knowledge, core technical and core designing and making principles

2 hours 30 minutes; 100 marks; 30% of the A Level qualification

Questions will include short answer, multiple choice and extended response.

Paper 2: Core technical principles and core designing and making principles

1 hour 30 minutes; 100 marks; 20% of the A Level qualification

Questions will include short answer, multiple choice and extended response.

Section A

• Product Analysis: 30 marks

• Up to 6 short answer questions based on visual stimulus of product(s)

Section B

• Commercial manufacture: 50 marks

• A mixture of short and extended questions.

Non-exam assessment: Practical application of core technical principles, core designing and making principles and additional specialist knowledge

40 hours; 100 marks; 50% of the A Level qualification

Single substantial design and make task and a written or electronic portfolio with photographic evidence of final outcome on: exploration, designing, making and analysis and evaluation.

GCSE grade 5 in Product Design or 5 in a related subject (e.g. Art) if not studied previously.