GCSE Design & Technology

Exam Board & Specification: GCSE Design & Technology

Subject Lead Contact

Mr D Sowerbutts

What will students study at Key Stage 4?

Year 10: Core technical principles (materials, processes, manufacturing, new/emerging technologies) combine with user‑centred design. Iterative mini‑briefs develop problem framing, specification writing, modelling and CAD/CAM as foundations for NEA.

Year 11: The NEA design‑and‑make project runs from research and specification to development, prototyping and evaluation with user feedback. Exam preparation targets specialist technical knowledge and wider design influences.

What do assessments test?

• AO1: Technical knowledge and understanding of materials, processes and manufacturing
• AO2: Designing and making – iterative development, modelling, prototyping and user feedback
• AO3: Analysis and evaluation – justify decisions and assess outcomes (NEA and examination)

What are the expectations of my child in this subject?

Bring full equipment, participate actively, complete homework on time, and use retrieval practice and past questions regularly. Keep notes organised and act on feedback promptly.

What should my child do if they feel they are struggling in this subject?

Speak to the teacher early, identify specific topics/skills to target, attend clinics/interventions, and use recommended resources (knowledge organisers, revision platforms, model answers).

How can I best support my child in this subject?

Discuss progress, help plan short and frequent study sessions, encourage targeted practice ahead of assessments, and ensure use of department‑recommended resources and past papers.