Engineering

Curriculum Intent

The OCR Level 1/2 Engineering Design course aims to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in a technical design environment. This two-year course focuses entirely on developing students’ ability to communicate ideas using industry-standard drawing techniques and CAD software. There is no requirement to make or manufacture products—students concentrate exclusively on the design and communication stages.

Students will explore how engineered products are developed through research, specification, and conceptual modelling. Emphasis is placed on technical drawing and visual communication using a range of traditional and digital techniques, preparing learners for further study and careers in design and engineering industries.

In Year 10, students are introduced to key technical drawing methods including orthographic projection, isometric, and perspective drawing. They also learn 2D and 3D CAD modelling, annotation, and rendering skills. The course builds confidence in using digital tools while also reinforcing sketching and presentation techniques to clearly communicate design intent.

By Year 11, students complete their NEA (non-examined assessment), where they investigate an existing product, develop a design brief and specification, and create a portfolio of design ideas and iterations using CAD. The course builds students’ ability to think critically, apply iterative design methods, and refine outcomes based on feedback.

Students will gain a clear understanding of real-world design processes and professional communication tools used across the engineering and manufacturing sectors. The course encourages creativity, precision, and problem-solving, supporting strong progression to Level 3 Engineering, apprenticeships, or further STEM education.

Ultimately, this course aims to produce digitally confident, technically accurate, and thoughtful young designers who are prepared for the next stage in their academic or professional journey in the design and engineering fields.

Curriculum Implementation – Curriculum Map

Texts and exam boards