BTEC National Level 3 Product and 3D Design

This course is for any art and design or engineering students with a passion and desire to explore the 3D world, and work imaginatively with design and manufacturing processes to explore solutions and iterations of new and exciting products and outcomes that engage with dynamic aesthetics and practical functions and mechanics.

It will fuse together creative and technical aspects and allow for open exploration for students to direct their investigations and explore trends, materials and processes that align with their chosen projects and themes of exploration.

You will learn a combination of design technology skills and processes using both digital and practical prototyping of ideas.

As part of the course, students will use CAD products to develop technical plans and drawings for outcomes as well as use a variety of design software such as Abobe to explore aesthetic functions.

You will also learn how to use technologies such as 3D printing, routing, milling and turning to create prototypes and physical outcomes.

We will invite you to a course information meeting event where you will receive information, advice and guidance about the course that you have applied for. This will be an opportunity for you to gain valuable information about the course and give you the opportunity to ask any questions that you may have.

You will provide a copy of your last school report and/or a reference from an employer or relevant professional, this will include attendance. This is to ensure that we can support you to be able to achieve well on the course.

Applicants with 85% or below attendance will have been deemed not to have met this criteria. All applicants are given an opportunity to discuss any evidence-based mitigating circumstances that may have affected the reference/school report.

If you are applying for a creative practice-based course, you will be invited to bring a portfolio of work that demonstrates what you have done in your previous courses.

5 x GCSEs at Level 4 or above, or a Level 2 equivalent in a relevant subject. You will have gained either English and/or Maths at GCSE Level 4 or above, or Level 2 Functional skills in English and/or Maths.

The course is assessed using 100% coursework. The programme uses the BTEC Arts Practice Qualification which assesses students on criteria that cover research, ideas, problem-solving, communication and presentation skills.

Each assignment or project will be set with a theme and context that allows students to engage with industry-relevant content as well as have autonomy and licence to lead their explorations to realise their outcomes with expert teacher and technical support,

Career possibilities include product design, architecture and interior design.

The 3D design aspect also feeds into careers around ecology and sustainability through developing an understanding of consumer and lifestyle awareness.

Future job roles might also include sculptor, prop designer, architect, model maker, jeweller and furniture designer.

There are no additional costs for this course.