Courses

Manufacturing and Product Design

Central Foundation Boys’ School

Course Outline

The Advanced Diploma is A-level 3 qualification equivalent to three A-levels.

The Diploma in Manufacturing and Product Design is a work-relevant qualification that looks at the complete process of manufacturing, from the purchasing of raw materials through to the sale of a finished product.

The course includes design, marketing and advertising, finance and the exploration of issues such as sustainability and globalisation. The Diploma has a strong business focus and you will gain an understanding of the importance of profitability for manufacturers, along with the economic environmental, social and political impacts of manufacturing. Learning often simulates workplace practices and may take place in a realistic workplace environment.

During the Diploma you will have the opportunity to do at least ten days of sector related work experience. During this time, you will get the chance to learn and be mentored by business people working in their chosen field. You will also complete your own project enabling you to work independently and demonstrate your skills and knowledge.

The Diploma allows you to continue to develop the essential skills of English, Mathematics and ICT, as well as developing your team-working, creative thinking and self-management skills.

Course Structure

You can focus your learning in any of the five sub-sectors: food; textiles; processing, including printing and publishing; polymers and pharmaceuticals; and engineering materials.

Three core themes of Product Design and Science, Business and Enterprise and Production Systems will be explored. The additional and specialist learning aspect allows you to take specialist courses that you are most interested in, including GCSE or A level subjects.  

Entry Requirements

5 Grade A-C GCSE including Mathematics and English.

Assessment

Over the two year programme there are nine units for Principal Learning. Units 1 and 2 are exam units and units 3 to 7 are coursework units.

Progression

Manufacturing is one of the largest and most diverse sectors in the UK. Employing around 4.3 million people, manufacturing generates two-thirds of what UK exports every year and offers a range of career opportunities. The Diploma in Manufacturing and Product Design will give you the skills needed for university or be your first step towards a career in the sector.