National Qualification in Design and Technology for Scotland

National Qualification in Design and Technology for Scotland provides a broad practical introduction to Design and Technology. The qualifications are specified and supported by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA).

Learners gain basic skills in designing and communicating a design idea, and explore and amend design ideas through model making and testing - in both product design and engineering contexts. The Course also develops and enhances practical creativity, practical problem solving skills, and an appreciation of safe working practices in a workshop or similar environment.

Following a recent review, there will be a greater emphasis on skills development to ensure young people develop the necessary skills for learning, life and work. There will continue to be an important focus on the development of knowledge and understanding of key concepts and content to ensure progression through levels.

Courses are available as:

• National 3 Design and Technology
  • The National 3 Design and Technology Course develops skills in producing and interpreting sketches, drawings and diagrams; practical model making and construction; and testing and simple evaluation of models. Learners apply safe working practices in a workshop or similar environment, and develop knowledge of basic engineering ideas.

and:

• Practical Craft Skills
  • National Qualifications in Practical Craft Skillsare experiential in nature and provide opportunities to develop and enhance practical creativity. Using a wide range of craft skills, tools, equipment and materials, learners develop practical problem-solving skills and gain an appreciation of safe working practices in a workshop or similar environment.

Courses in Practical Craft Skills are available at the following levels:

• • National 2 Practical Craft Skills
  • National 3 Practical Craft Skills