A Level 3D Design gives you hands-on experience working three-dimensionally with a wide range of materials and techniques in our well-equipped workshop. You’ll develop skills in research, idea development (digitally and by hand), analysis, and refinement to reach exciting, effective outcomes.
It’s ideal for students who’ve studied GCSE Design & Technology or Art and want to explore three-dimensional work further. This creative course offers a real taste of the design sector.
You’ll conduct visual and primary research, explore design issues, and visit galleries featuring historical and contemporary artists. You’ll work with wood, metals, plastics, ceramics, and glass, and learn to present work to a near-professional standard.
The course focuses on experimentation in our workshops and encourages inspiration from your surroundings, trips, and architecture. Specialisms might include:
-
Architecture
-
Interior, landscape, or environmental design
-
Crafts (ceramics, glass, wood, metal)
-
Product or furniture design
-
Jewellery or body adornment
-
Sculpture
-
Civil engineering
-
Performance/production design
-
Film/TV set and prop design
-
3D animation or puppet construction
You’ll be guided in the safe use of tools and technologies including laser cutting and 3D printing. You’ll learn technical drawing, 3D modelling, image editing, and software like AutoCAD, Fusion 360, and Photoshop.
Through observational drawing and photography, you’ll build visual research, using artist and designer influences to inspire your own ideas. You’ll also explore how design impacts humanity and how you can improve the world through your work.
Across both years, you’ll visit galleries, explore making processes, and present to a high standard. Visiting practitioners will share their expertise, demonstrating their crafts and industry experience.
In Year 1, you’ll follow guided briefs (e.g. inspired by Birmingham architecture), and later choose your own 3D specialism for a personal project.
Modules:
The AS Level is one unit, 100% coursework based developing Personal Creative Enquiry.
The A Level course is divided into two units: Coursework which counts for 60%, covering a Personal Investigation, including a substantial written element, and an externally set Exam unit which counts for 40% of the overall A Level grade. Both units include sampling and final pieces backed up with sketchbook-based research, development and evaluation.
- COMPONENT 0 – AS EXPLORATORY PROJECTS
- COMPONENT 1 – A2 COURSEWORK (60%)
- COMPONENT 2 – A2 EXAM (40%)
The course requires 5 hours a week of programmed study (lesson time) with a further 4-5 hours independent study at home.
Links to employers:
At Cadbury Sixth Form College, we work closely with employers to help our students prepare for the world of work or university. Through our industry connections, you’ll gain valuable insights and experience that reflect real workplace expectations.
Some of the universities we collaborate with include BCU, Wolverhampton, Loughborough University, Coventry University, DMU, and Nottingham — all offering opportunities to learn from professionals, understand industry trends, and develop the skills that matter most to employers today.
