A Level 

A non-examined ‘Iterative Design Project’ is a substantial design, make and evaluate project centred on the iterative processes of explore, create and evaluate. It is worth 50% of the A Level qualification. You will be required to identify a design opportunity or problem from a context of your own choice, and create a chronological portfolio supported by real–time evidence of your project development. Innovative approaches will be required resulting in a final prototype that can be tested against the user and the market.  

The ‘Principles’ examination paper is worth 26.7% (80 marks) of the A Level qualification and assesses analysis of existing products, technical knowledge and understanding of materials, product functionality, manufacturing processes and techniques and allows you to demonstrate your understanding of design thinking and wider social, moral and environmental issues that impact on the design and manufacturing industries. The paper is 1 hour 30 minutes long. 

The ‘Problem Solving’ paper is worth 23.3% (70 marks) of the A Level qualification and requires learners to apply their knowledge and understanding through higher level thinking skills, reflecting on the viability of products and possible design solutions in context and being able to make critical judgements on the most appropriate methods and outcomes. The paper is 1 hour 45 minutes long. 

 First cohort are currently in year 13 at present there are 5 pupils on this course. Current year 12 there are 6 pupils. We want to expand numbers over the next few years. 

Currently the course is taught by the subject leader who has a degree specific to Design Technology and a new member to the Design Technology department who has an MA in architecture. This course was originally delivered at Bradfield school and is also delivered at Tapton. Staff across the Tapton trust regularly meet up to share resources and expertise.

The current year 13 are Forge valley first cohort, however the course has historically been delivered at both Tapton and Bradfield who are part of our TSAT.   

The OCR content requires you to apply mathematical and scientific knowledge, understanding and skills. This content reflects the importance of Design and Technology as a pivotal STEM subject.

Yes, you will gain skills that are useful in a wide range of jobs, in further study of design or engineering and in your personal life develop decision making skills, including the planning and organisation of time and resources when managing a project. 

 You will build and develop on your knowledge and understanding from GCSE whilst also having the freedom to focus in more depth on areas of design and technology that most interests you. This allows access to a range of future career aspirations in the design and engineering industries, leading to future careers in product design, engineering, architecture, fashion and graphic design; it will develop your design and thinking skills that open up a world of possibility, providing the tools to create the future.