In years 7-9 the Design and Technology curriculum at The Mosslands School seeks to support flourishing pupils that have a real thirst for creativity. A student within the Design and Technology department will have the opportunity to make their own design decisions, has an enquiring mind that is motivated to seek solutions to problems independently, and reflects on their progress through a systematic process of self and peer evaluation. Each class will have three lessons a fortnight. This will prepare them for their chosen specialism at K.S.4 if they wish to opt for this curriculum area.

The Eduqas Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9–1) in Design and Technology offers a purposeful blend of creative design, practical making, and technical understanding.

Focusing on real‑world problem‑solving, this GCSE encourages students to apply design thinking from initial concept through to modelling, testing, refining, and final production. Learners can choose between Fashion & Textiles or Product Design pathways, each backed by real Non‑Exam Assessment moderation in person—unique to Eduqas.

Assessment

• Written Exam (50%): Assesses technical principles and designing & making knowledge, including commercial viability, sustainability, user needs, and broader industry context

• NEA – Non‑Exam Assessment (50%): A design‑and‑make task where students independently plan, model, test, and produce a prototype solution to a real-world problem. Internal assessment is moderated in person by Eduqas for fairness and consistency 

Key Skills Developed

Students following this GCSE build the following competencies:

• Creative and Systems Thinking – Researching, ideating, modelling, prototyping, and refining practical design solutions that meet identified needs.

• Technical Knowledge – Learning about materials, manufacturing techniques, CAD/CAM, sustainability issues, consumer requirements, and commercial considerations.

• Planning and Project Management – Breaking down projects into sequences, making considered design decisions, managing time and resources effectively during NEA.

• Practical Making Skills – Applying hands-on techniques in product or textiles workshops, realising ideas accurately and safely.

• Evaluation and Problem-Solving – Testing prototypes, responding to feedback, and iterating designs to improve function, aesthetics, and user interaction.

• Communication and Collaboration – Working independently or in teams to justify decisions, present outcomes and respond to critique.

Progression

On successful completion, students will be well equipped to progress to:

• A Level Design and Technology, or other post-16 design-related pathways

• Vocational or technical apprenticeships

• Further education, with a grounded and practical understanding of design and manufacturing