Graphics is an exciting and creative subject to study. It can lead to a wide range of interesting and worthwhile careers. The subject involves you working somewhere between how a graphic designer and a model maker would work in industry; your classroom becomes not only a design studio, but also a place to make high-quality models in 3 dimensions. You will have the opportunity to be creative and design new products and understand how and why the design process works. You will learn variety of design skills from drawing and presentation techniques to computer aided design and model making.

At GCSE level students will study the AQA Design & Technology specification which comprises of a Non Exam Assessment (course work project) and a theory exam, both worth 50%.

The course has been designed to encourage candidates to be able to design and make products with creativity and originality, using a range of graphic and modelling materials.

They will be encouraged to learn through images to use, understand and apply colour and design, to develop spatial concepts, and to understand graphic materials and their manipulation. They will design and make products using graphic media and new technologies to prepare them for the world of work.

The course is designed to foster awareness of the need to consider sustainability and the environmental impact of their design.

Students are taught by developing their practical skills through projects ranging from packaging design, illustration, hand-drawn & computer-aided design, branding & promotional materials and technical drawing. Students will also learn about industrial processes, materials and the work of existing designers.

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