Pupils at Key Stage 4 will be studying Design Technology in order to gain a GCSE in the subject. There are various GCSE courses that secondary schools offer in this curriculum area. Examination boards produce specifications that influence the Key Stage 4 Design Technology curriculum that pupils follow.

Pupils may be studying Resistant Materials. This engages pupils in designing an making products using a range of materials and techniques. They work with wood, metals, plastics and other additional materials. Pupils are taught to analyse a task, consider design in light of user needs and undertake appropriate research. They evaluate their work against a product specification that they have created.

Food Technology may be an option offered to Key Stage 4 pupils. They design ad make food products. Pupils develop their understanding of food properties. For example, the function of starch, protein, sugar and fat. They consider nutritional value of food. Pupils will analyse products and how they meet specific needs of the consumer. They undertake research and create criteria for their products against which they can evaluate the quality and success.

There are also courses that may focus on: Electronic Products, Graphic Products, Systems and Control and Textiles. The ability to evaluate products, carry out research to arrive at design specifications and produce high-quality products to meet these underpin courses.