The National 4 and 5 Design and Manufacture courses allow candidates to develop knowledge and skills enabling them to appreciate, contribute and adapt to the diverse opportunities offered in manufacturing industries.
Candidates develop creative and practical skills by designing and making solutions to real problems. In addition, they gain an understanding of the impact of design and manufacture on everyday life.
The course encourages candidates to take a broad view of design and manufacture, generating, developing and communicating ideas, applying knowledge, and justifying decisions. These transferrable skills place candidates in a strong position regardless of the career path they choose.
The course enables candidates to develop:
- skills in designing and manufacturing models, prototypes and products
- knowledge and understanding of manufacturing processes and materials
- an understanding of the impact of design and manufacturing technologies on our environment and society
This course is suitable for learners attracted by practical activities. It provides a foundation for those considering further study or a career in design, manufacturing, engineering, science, marketing, and related disciplines.
The course also offers a complementary practical experience for those studying subjects in the technologies and expressive arts.
At National 4 level pupils complete two units designing and Manufacturing and a final Value added unit which brings both of these elements together into one final project.
At National 5 course assessment has three components.
Component | Marks | Duration |
Component 1: question paper | 80 | 1 hour and 45 minutes |
Component 2: assignment — design | 55 | See course assessment section |
Component 3: assignment — practical | 45 | See course assessment section |
SQA Subject Page for National 5 Design and Manufacture
Click here for careers in Design and Manufacture