A Level 3D Design

This course is perfect for students wishing to learn the study of visual communication through the exploration of three-dimensional outcomes. Learn to develop design solutions, exploring methods and processes that utilise state-of-the-art technology.

Duration 2 years
Qualification A Level (or equivalent)
Start Date Thursday 3rd September 2026
Course Code ALPRDBE26T
Students sat at computers who are also measuring small metal objects.

TOP COURSE HIGHLIGHTS

  • Exceptional facilities
  • Creative art academies
  • Excellent tutor support

Laser technology

Cutting edge workshop facilities, including the latest in 3D printing and laser technology.

suit your chosen specialisation

Refine ways of working which suit your individual interests, acquiring and developing specialist skills in your chosen discipline, Architecture, Product and Interior Design.

STEM content embedded

Industry led project briefs and Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) subject content embedded throughout.

WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?

Do you possess a lively, enquiring mind? Do you enjoy developing your ideas through making and utilising a range of processes towards a final project? During the 3D Design course, you will learn to develop design solutions, exploring the power of computer-aided design and emerging technologies as a creative tool. The course is structured to support and develop your confidence and individual strengths, from traditional model making and studio-based skills through to more commercial methods of manufacturing, allowing for a broad and creative approach to design. You will participate in a range of varied and challenging workshops developing fundamental skills and knowledge integral to the world of Three-Dimensional Design.

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

Workshops include experimental technologies and playful model making for students who wish to take the more traditional approach; digital workshops offer all students access to develop skills in industry standard CAD software including Solidworks, Adobe Creative Suite. Other aspects you will explore include thumbnail sketches, prototype modelling, 3D scanning, materials testing, extending these further through advanced CAD techniques.

WHERE WILL IT TAKE ME?

A qualification in 3D design is highly valued by universities and employers and is applicable to almost every progression in art and design. Employment as an Architect, Product or Interior Designer is the clearest route. Taken with Maths and Physics lead to Engineering or Science based professions. You can progress directly from A Level to either an Arts Degree or Science/Engineering Degree.

Component 1: Personal Investigation
Internally Assessed 60% of A Level
The Personal Investigation consists of a major in-depth, practical, critical and theoretical investigative project/theme-based portfolio. Learners will be required to carry out an extended critical and contextual analysis (1000 word minimum requirement).

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment
Internally Assessed 40% of A Level
Learners will be required to independently develop a personal response to one of a varied range of stimuli. Learners will develop their response during a preparatory study period culminating in a 15 hour sustained focus study.

  • Independent work is fundamental to the course; at least 50% of all work assessed should have happened outside the classroom.
  • Homework is set weekly. Initially it is set by lecturers and will be tightly specified and closely linked to class workshops; it will be monitored regularly. As the course develops you will be required to set your own homework/independent work based on agreed learning needs.
  • Your ongoing work will be assessed in lessons through focused 1:1 discussion. Sketchbook work will be assessed regularly for reflective, thoughtful, analytical critical evaluation and annotation. Emphasis is upon the development towards a final piece, through observation and technical, aesthetic and conceptual refinement.
  • You will also be assessed against how your research of art, craft, design, media and technologies in contemporary and past societies and cultures improves your own understanding and practice.
  • Discussions and presentations are a vital part of our assessment process and you will be expected to contribute to these during your lessons.
Three girls sit on a picnic bench and are chatting and laughing.
Course code: ALPRDBE26T
Duration 2 years
Qualification A Level (or equivalent)