Product Design A Level

NEW Applications for September 2027

Applications Open - Monday 2nd November 2026

Applications Close - Monday 5th April 2026 at 5pm

Entry Requirements - A minimum of six separately identifiable GCSE subjects at grade 6 or above OR an average of grade 6 in the best six GCSE subjects achieved

At least a grade 5 in both English and Mathematics For most subjects at A Level, a grade 6 in the subject at GCSE is required. However, for A Level Mathematics a grade 7 is required, and for Further Mathematics a grade 8 is necessary

How to Apply - Applications can be made through Kent Choices

Please contact us directly if you have any questions - contact sixthformrecruitment@nks.kent.sch.uk

Open Evening

Thursday 14th January 2027: 6pm - 8pm

Presentations at 6:30pm & 7:30pm

No booking necessary.

Open Mornings - Please visit our school website to book a slot for the open mornings www.nks.kent.sch.uk

Thursday 19th November 2026 9am - 12pm

Thursday 10th December 2026 9am -12pm

Please visit our website for information on consultation meeting if you would like to visit the school and talk to a member of the Sixth Form Team - https://www.nks.kent.sch.uk/page/?title=Sixth+Form+Admissions&pid=33

This specification is designed to encourage candidates to:

• develop a broad view of design and technology
• develop their capacity to design and make products
• appreciate the complex relations between design, materials, manufacture and marketing.

Year 12 outline

In year 12, students develop an understanding of core technical principals, core designing and making principles and additional specialist knowledge.

Year 13 outline

In year 13, students build on their subject knowledge, technical understanding, and design and manufacture of commercial products. The product is client based and relies on client testing and feedback throughout the project, combined with in-depth knowledge of materials, processes and production techniques to produce a commercially viable product.

Paper 1 – 30% of A Level. 2.5 hour written paper. 120 marks. Short answer and extended response questions.

Paper 2 – 20% of A Level. 1.5 hour written paper. 80 marks. Short answer, multiple choice and extended response on specialist knowledge, technical and design and making principles.

Section A Product Analysis (30 marks)

Section B Commercial Manufacture short and extended response questions (50 marks)

Non Exam Assessment 50% of A level. 45 hours. 100 marks Substantial design and make task evidenced by a design portfolio and final prototype

GCSE grade 6 in Product Design.

Architecture, Building Studies, Engineering, Food Technology, Industrial Design, Model making, Product Design.