What is Engineering Design?
Engineering Design is a specialised branch of Design and Technology which focuses on electronics, mechanisms and computer control. It is the 21st Century D&T. In Engineering Design we are not just looking at designing and developing the way that products look, we are improving the way they work, improving technologies and making products better and safer using engineering principles. We are developing the functionality and the intricate ways in which products can be manufactured. The subject requires a good understanding of science and maths as part of the course content is mechanical maths, focusing on the science behind mechanisms and electronics, and how they improve functionality of ideas. It is the next step DT. Using microchips, computer software, laser cutting and 3D printing technology, Engineering Design pupils make products that actually function.
Career Opportunities:
Engineering Design complements many other subjects and works alongside science and maths if you are interested in engineering and the practical application of maths. It can open avenues into a plethora of careers ranging from architecture, civil, mechanical, aeronautical engineering, product design, CAD operators and construction. Ultimately, employers want creative people and problem solvers, and the development of those much sought after skills is what Engineering Design is all about.
The Course:
In Year 11 you will complete a Controlled Assessment Task, this is a 35 Hour design and make project spread over the Autumn/Winter and Spring Terms, and this is worth 50% of your overall GCSE grade. You will also be covering Engineering Design theory and will sit an exam at the end of Year 11 that will be the remaining 50% of your overall grade. We recommend that you are very, very good at Maths and Science to take this course. It’s not easy!
What to do for Information:
If you need help deciding, have questions about the course or are interested in any of the Design & Technology subjects at GCSE then ask one of your DT teachers. Choosing your options should be fun, exciting and serious, give it some thought and choose subjects designed for you!
DT at Whitchurch. Creating your future.