AS/A Level Design and Technology

Key Details

Available at:
Pwllheli, Dolgellau
Study Mode:
Full-time
Course Length:
1-2 years

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AS/A Level Design and Technology

School Leavers

Dolgellau

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Pwllheli

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Applying for more than one A Level?

You can apply from this page and you will have the opportunity to add your additional A Level subjects at the end of the application process. You can find the A Level subject grid to make your choices on our main A Level page.

Please note: We recommend that you have access to a laptop or Chromebook to enable coursework to be completed digitally at home. There is a dedicated IT Digital Inclusion fund to support those learners who do not have a digital device and are unable to purchase one.

Course Description

Would you like to develop a broad understanding of product design? This course is aimed at a wide range of students who wish to appreciate the complex relations between design, materials, manufacture and marketing. It allows you to gain skills in designing and making products, which will be demonstrated through practical coursework.

The course can be taken as part of a full-time programme of study in conjunction with other AS subjects, or possibly with other Level 3 qualifications.

The course can also be taken on a part-time basis by mature students.

The course gives you an introduction to the field of design and manufacturing technology. You will have the opportunity to develop your design and making skills through sketchbook and project work. You will also be able to use computerised design systems (CAD/CAM), and will have opportunities to experience product design in industrial context. Foreign trips and educational visits to exhibitions may also be arranged.

Year 1 (AS)

Unit 1 - Theory: This unit focuses on developing your knowledge and understanding of designing and making principles, together with the technical principles related to product design; such as materials and manufacturing processes. The unit is worth 50% of the AS grade and will involve a written exam.

Unit 2 - Design and Make Task: This unit gives you the opportunity to put theory into practice. You will follow the design process to create a 3D prototype product that meets the needs of a specific customer. This unit is worth 50% of the AS grade and will involve a project based on your own area of interest.

Year 2 (A2)

The AS result contributes to 40% of the A2 grade, with the remaining 60% from the following year 2 units:

Unit 3 - Theory: This unit aims to build on the knowledge and understanding gained from Unit 1 (AS) by exploring the wider issues that impact product design; to include commercial and industrial practices and working within regulations and legislation. The unit is worth 30% of the A2 grade and will involve a written exam.

Unit 4 - Design and Make Task: This unit gives you another opportunity to put theory into practice. You will follow the design process to create a 3D prototype product that meets the needs of a specific customer. Although similar in structure to Unit 2 (AS), there is more emphasis on innovation and creativity in design in Unit 4 (A2). This unit is worth 30% of the AS grade and will involve a project based on your own area of interest.

Entry Criteria

Applying for A Levels? Click ‘Apply Now’ on any of the subjects you are interested in studying. You will be able to specify your other two A Level choices during the online application process.

The A Level subject grids for each campus can be found in the guides on the A Level section of the website.

In order to qualify for this course, you will need the following:

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English or Welsh 1st Language
GCSE Design and Technology or related subject grade C

As part of the application process, you will be asked to attend an interview to give you the opportunity to discuss the course.

Progression to A Level is based on your performance at AS Level.

Delivery

The course is delivered through a blend of the following:

Lectures and classroom work to include group work
Interactive resources on the course - Google Classroom (VLE)
Listening, reading and responding
Practical workshop sessions

Your programme will include a combination of:

Essential Skills qualifications and/or
GCSE resits and/or
The Welsh Baccalaureate

Welsh Baccalaureate

Welsh Baccalaureate is a valuable qualification which is often studied alongside your Level 3 full-time course.

The qualification is graded A*-E, carrying the equivalent UCAS points at Level 3, and equips you with transferable personal and business skills. It is highly regarded by universities and employers alike.

As part of the qualification, you will learn about Global Citizenship, Enterprise and Employability and take part in community engagement and work experience.

Essential Skills

This may include a combination of Application of Number, Communication, Digital Literacy and Essential Employability Skills

GCSE resits

This may include GCSE Numeracy/Maths and/or Welsh/English Language.

Maths & Welsh/English

If you don't achieve a C or above in Maths and/ or English/Welsh, we will support you to retake these subjects as part of your study programme.

Assessment

The theory units will be examined in May/June each year. The project and portfolio work will be assessed in parts throughout the year and externally moderated in early May.

Progression

Whether you study the full A Level or just the AS Level, the course adds to your qualifications and helps you to progress. You will gain UCAS points and be able to apply for a range of Higher Education courses at many institutions, including Grŵp Llandrillo Menai.

If you choose to continue your studies in a related subject, there are many university courses available, and your studies on the A Level course will help you to make an informed choice from the options available.

You could progress onto a Foundation Degree in Art and Design, or apply for a degree in teaching, product design, jewellery design, fashion and textiles, engineering, architecture, or any other area which interests you.