How students will learn

The Diploma in Manufacturing and Product Design (MPD) gives young people the opportunity to learn in a variety of different ways and develops both the knowledge and practical skills employers are looking for. Through learning in the workplace, as well as at school and college, young people gain a real understanding of working in manufacturing and product design.

All students complete at least 10 days work experience. This not only provides an invaluable insight into the working world, but also gives young people the chance to put into practice what they have learnt in school and college.

Through being encouraged to think independently and creatively, learners explore areas of specific interest by completing a student project, which will demonstrate the wide ranging knowledge and specific skills they have developed.

For example, learners could work with their teacher or lecturer to select a specific subject area, or they might decide to follow the Food and Drink Schools Challenge where they are set the task of developing a new product. Alternatively, they could compete in the Formula One Technology Challenge, which invites young people to work in teams to design and manufacture CO2 - powered Formula One cars.