Three-Dimensional Design is defined here as the design, prototyping and modelling or making of primarily functional and aesthetic consumer products, objects and environments. Learners can choose one or more area(s) of study including but not exclusively architectural design, product design, environmental/ landscape design, as well as design and communication work. Candidates will be expected to develop their skill set and knowledge across computer-aided design, model making, prototyping, constructing, assembling. An understanding of the relationship between form and function is essential. Learners must explore practical and relevant critical and contextual sources such as the work of historical and contemporary three-dimensional designers and the different purposes, intentions and functions of three-dimensional design as appropriate to their own work.

Learners beginning this course are not expected to have studied Design and Technology previously.

GCSE

Three-Dimensional Design is defined here as the design, prototyping and modelling or making of primarily functional and aesthetic consumer products, objects and environments. Learners can choose one or more area(s) of study including but not exclusively architectural design, product design, environmental/ landscape design, as well as design and communication work. Candidates will be expected to develop their skill set and knowledge across computer-aided design, model making, prototyping, constructing, assembling. An understanding of the relationship between form and function is essential. Learners must explore practical and relevant critical and contextual sources such as the work of historical and contemporary three-dimensional designers and the different purposes, intentions and functions of three-dimensional design as appropriate to their own work.

Learners beginning this course are not expected to have studied Design and Technology previously.

Find out more about our 3D Design GCSE, including course content and assessment, here: GCSE Subject Options Brochure.

A Level

This course encourages pupils to think critically, experiment boldly, and communicate ideas through the language of three-dimensional design.

In the first term, pupils are introduced to a wide variety of visual communication methods. They will learn appropriate drawing techniques for design, including orthographic projection, isometric drawing, and perspective. Pupils also gain hands-on experience with industry-standard CAD software, including Autodesk Fusion 360, Adobe Photoshop, and Illustrator. Alongside digital design, pupils will explore traditional and contemporary manufacturing processes. These include laser cutting, 3D printing, wood and metalwork using hand tools and machinery, and casting and mould-making techniques.

Through focused experimentation with materials and processes, pupils will develop well-reasoned and imaginative design solutions in response to self-directed challenges. The course is ideal for pupils with interests across subjects such as Art, DT, Engineering, Physics, or Architecture. A strong work ethic, a willingness to draw, and an interest in problem-solving through design is essential.

Find out more about our 3D Design A Level, including course content and assessment, here: 6th Form Subject Options Brochure.

This syllabus supports progression into further education, training or employment. Higher education opportunities and beyond could include:

• Foundation studies in Art and Design;
• Higher National Diplomas in Art and Design;
• Foundation Degrees in Art and Design;
• Honours Degrees in Art and Design; Product Design, Film, Graphics or Architecture, Industrial Design, Textiles, Theatre Design, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering; and
• Apprenticeships or other training.

In addition to providing a secure foundation for study in higher education, the syllabus equips candidates with a range of skills in business, education and the arts. The syllabus is intended to meet the needs of the following groups of candidates:

• Those who, while having an interest and aptitude in the subject, are not intending to study the subject beyond A Level.
• Those who will undertake further studies in Art and Design.

Should pupils not be looking to pursue Art and Design beyond A Level, these courses will enable them to demonstrate genuine problem-solving, independent learning skills, and time management skills, ensuring all our pupils are prepared for the world of higher education or employment. Most importantly, it will enable candidates to be visually literate in a world where image, creative ideas, marketing, branding, identification and efficient graphic communication are paramount. 

Pupils who have studied an Art endorsement have gone on to study Architecture at La Europa Madrid; Design at Loughborough; Fashion Management at London College of Fashion; Fine Art at Falmouth and Newcastle; Furniture Design at Kingston; Graphics at Bath Spa and Kingston; Illustration at UCL London; and Media Production and Film at Bournemouth. Pupils have also gone to work directly into sets and props at Pinewood Studios.