Exam Board: AQA    Duration: 2 years    Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in DT or Design-based GCSE, Grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics and Grade 5 in GCSE English.

Reasons to study 3D Design

Three-dimensional Design (3D Design) is a stepping stone to the design and architecture industry. It is the perfect course for students that are wanting to study architecture, furniture design, product design, game design, 3D design or engineering.

3D Design is focussed around developing student’s ability in all areas of design to fully prepare them for an exciting career in design or architecture.

3D design offers students the chance to develop their making skills, innovation and understand how to design and make complex 3D objects.

We focus on all aspects of design including 3D sketching, advanced model making, material knowledge, CAD software, 3D printing and Laser cutting to name a few.

Course Outline

3D Design: Product Design is a practical course in which you learn by doing, you will be able to create imaginative personal work. You will find out about a whole range of media, techniques and processes. You will develop your creativity and independent thought, learn to express yourself visually and let your imagination flourish in a workshop environment. 3D Design is a great companion to all other subjects as creativity, imagination and problem-solving skills are transferrable to your other subjects.

In the first year you will develop your knowledge, understanding, and skills working with different materials, techniques, and processes in the wood, metal and plastics within a workshop environment. This will be done through a series of projects. You will learn to use the tools and machines used in industry including 3D modelling software to create your ideas and make use of the 3D Printing and Laser Cutter facilities to aid manufacture.

The second year of the A-level will comprise of 2 components. In component 1 you will develop work for a personal investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme supported by written material.

This will count for 60% of your total A-level marks. In component 2 you will produce personal work in response to one of eight exciting starting points which will count for 40% of your total A-level marks.

Students are required to work in one or more area(s) of three-dimensional design, such as those listed below. They may explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas:
Product design (e.g. furniture)
Environmental and architectural design (design to enhance the world in which we live – buildings, parks, venues, land marks, landscaping etc.)
Interior design (designing to enhance the interior of a building)
Exhibition or marketing design (e.g.point of sale display, interactive display)
Jewellery/body ornament
3D digital design including CAD (Computer Aided Design) and 3D printing.

Assessment Outline

Component 1 Personal Investigation:
No time limit, 96 marks, 60% of A-Level

Component 2 Response to an external set assignment:
Preparatory period + 15 hours supervised time
96 marks, 40% of A-Level

Non exam assessment set by AQA marked by the centre and moderated by AQA during a visit to the centre.

Visits will normally take place in June

Progression Routes and Career Paths

The intellectual rigour of the undertaken during the course will find relevance in many careers and means that it is welcomed by both universities and employers.

  • Industrial Designer
  • Model Maker
  • 3D Designer
  • Exhibition Designer
  • Furniture Design
  • Product Designer
  • Environmental Designer
  • Architect
  • Toy Designer
  • Interior Designer

The Romero’s Technology Department

All units are delivered by teaching staff who have first class industry experience and are able to ensure a rounded experience that equips students with the skill set for university or equivalent and the ability to work in the design industry.

There will be a range of enrichment and extension opportunities offered as part of the STEM nature of the course.

Our Technology team are highly experienced and year on year deliver exceptional outcomes.

Further Information

For more information or if you have any questions about the A Level 3D Design course please contact:

Mr C Hicks – Subject Leader for Design Technology
[email protected]