Design (3D Design)
Design is an exciting course at Monkton. This large department can be found next door to Art and Photography and has its very own ICT suite, fully equipped to cater to a range of design styles and preferences.
GCSE
3D Design is perfect for creative problem-solvers who love bringing ideas to life. You’ll learn to design and make innovative products using a wide range of materials and techniques through the iterative design process. It’s great for future careers in architecture, product design, jewellerydesign, engineering and many more. Plus, you’ll developskills like creative problem solving, critical thinking andproject management that are useful in any job.
What will I learn at GCSE?
In GCSE 3D Design, you’ll explore product creation. You’ll learn to sketch and develop ideas, use computer-aided design (CAD) software, and create prototypes. You will also work with different materials like wood, metal, and plastics. You’ll discover the design process, from initial concepts to final products. You will study iconic designers and design movements for inspiration. You’ll learn about sustainability in design and how to consider user needs. By the end, you’ll be able to create exciting innovative solutions.
How is the course structured?
The course is split into two main parts: coursework and exam. In the beginning of Year 10, we focus on building skills through mini-projects. You’ll try out different materials and techniques, and learn to use design software. We also start the main coursework project, which continues into Year 11. This coursework project lets you choose a theme and create a product from start to finish. You’ll research, sketch ideas, develop designs, make prototypes, and produce a final piece. Then in January of Year 11 you will start the exam project which is a mini design and make project.
How is the course examined?
The course is assessed through both coursework and an exam project. The coursework, called the Non-Exam Assessment (NEA), is worth 60% of your final grade. This includes a number of mini projects and then your own personal project which you will begin half way through Year 10 and finish in Year 11. The other 40% comes from an exam project called the Externally Set Assignment, which is set in January and completed in a much shorter space of time, ending with a 10 hour exam in the beginning of the summer term in which you realise your final design.
A Level
In 3D Design you will learn how to transform your ideas into innovative 3D creations. Students are encouraged to choose a path that they are enthused by and potentially will want to study, options range from architecture through to product, engineering, sculpture and jewellery design. The course is all about innovation, creative problem-solving and hands-on design, developing skills essential for shaping the future through form and function.
What will I learn?
You’ll explore 3D design through architecture, engineering, product and jewellery design. Using both traditional techniques and 3D CAD software, youw ill develop skills in prototyping, sketch modelling, CAM, traditional workshop skill and the iterative design process. Critical reflection and creative thinking will be important considerations as you develop your skills.
How is the course structured?
In Year 12, you’ll experiment with materials, processes, CAD and sketch modelling to develop your design language. Projects focus on prototyping, problem-solving and innovation. Mid way through Year 12 students begin their personal investigation and major practical project, combining design thinking, making and critical analysis in a fully realised 3D outcome. This project will finish just after Christmas in Year 13 and then students will begin the exam project, a much shorter desig n and make project, set by the exam board.
How is the course examined?
The AQA A Level 3D Design course is assessed through:
Component 1: Personal Investigation (60%) – A practical portfolio (sketchbooks, experiments, final pieces) and a written essay (1,000–3,000 words). Internally marked, externally moderated.
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%) Students respond to an AQA theme, producing preparatory work followed by a 15-hour supervised exam to create final piece(s). Internally marked, externally moderated.
Both components are judged on four assessment objectives (AOs): AO1 (Develop ideas) AO2 (Refine techniques) AO3 (Record research) AO4 (Present final work).
No written exam—assessment is practical and coursework-based.
What could I do next?
Study architecture, engineering, product or jewellery design, or apply your creative skills in design-focused degrees and apprenticeships.