This is a new specification for teaching from Sept 2026

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

Unit 1: Design and Technology in the 21st Century Written Digital examination:

1 hour 30 minutes

30% of qualification

80 marks

Summary of assessment This is a written exam paper that takes place at the end of the course in Year 11.

Questions requiring objective responses, short and extended answers assessing learners’ knowledge and understanding of the core aspects of design and technology and product design.

In this section, learners will gain knowledge and understanding of:

1.1.1 New and emerging technologies

1.1.2 Modern and smart materials

1.1.3 Sustainable design

1.1.4 Energy storage and renewability

1.1.5 Contemporary design thinking; historical and cultural influences

Unit 2: Design Project

Non-examination assessment:

 Approximately 40 hours

70% of qualification

100 marks

Summary of assessment

A sustained design and make task, based on a contextual challenge set by WJEC, assessing learners’ ability to:

• identify, investigate, analyse and outline design possibilities

• design and make prototypes and evaluate their fitness for purpose.

The purpose of this unit is to:

• offer learners the opportunity to identify and solve ‘real life’ problems by designing and making products or systems that respond to the target markets’ needs, wants and values

• offer learners the opportunity to apply the iterative design process while developing solutions, including the analysis, evaluation and refinement of ideas as they develop

• develop learners’ ability to manufacture high quality, fully functioning prototypes, fit for purpose and fulfilling the needs, wants and values of the users. This unit will focus on:

• the identification of a range of possible design opportunities

• the production of a clear design brief(s) and detailed specifications that allow design ideas to be generated, tested, developed and refined into quality proposals

• applying the iterative design process to provide creative and innovative solutions

• the production of quality final prototypes that solve identified problems, using appropriate tools, equipment and processes safely and effectively

• analysing and evaluating design solutions considering the end users’ needs, wants and values.

Careers using GCSE Design Technology

Design and technology careers offer a diverse range of opportunities combining creativity with technical skills. Popular options include graphic design, user experience (UX) design, web development, software development, and various engineering roles like mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering. Other design-related roles include interior design, product design, and industrial design, while technology-focused roles include game development, animation, and sound engineering. The knowledge and skills you learn, such as teamwork and time management will be valued by employers.