GCSE Technology and Design (2017)

The CCEA GCSE Technology and Design specification encourages students to be innovative and prepared to take design risks.

Students explore the creative, engineering and manufacturing industries, as well as the importance of high quality technology and design.

Our GCSE Technology and Design specification provides students with a core of knowledge in the following key areas before they choose to specialise in one:

  • electronic and microelectronic control systems
  • mechanical and pneumatic control systems
  • product design.

There are two written exams, each worth 25% of the final mark, and a design and manufacturing project worth 50%. Teachers mark the design project, and we visit centres to carry out moderation.

This qualification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed through the Science and Technology Area of Learning and the Cross-Curricular Skill of Using ICT.

This specification is unitised, so it’s possible to take part of the assessment at the end of the first year of study.

The specification has three units:

  • Unit 1: Technology and Design Core Content
  • Unit 2: Optional Areas of Study
  • Unit 3: Design and Manufacturing Project.

Current Specification

First teaching: from September 2017
First assessment: from Summer 2018
First award: from Summer 2019
QAN: 603/0771/7
Subject code: 8900
Guided learning hours: 120
Qualification level: 1/2

Skills developed through our GCSE Technology and Design

This specification supports the Northern Ireland Curriculum at Key Stage 4 and gives students further opportunities to achieve their potential and develop skills for life. It encourages students to develop transferable skills that will benefit them in vocational training and employment.

Students develop decision-making skills through individual and collaborative working. They also develop their creativity and critical analysis skills through making links between existing solutions, technological knowledge and the principles of good design.

With this qualification, students may choose to progress to our GCE in Technology and Design and then to a qualification in engineering, product design or a related area, or the world of work.

For more information on this specification contact:

Judith Ryan
Subject Officer
(028) 9590 6550
Nuala Tierney
Specification Support Officer
(028) 9590 6689