GCSE Design and Technology
We've updated our qualifications to reflect changes to 2021 exams and assessment.
Read about the changes to 2021 exams for GCSE Design and Technology
- Teaching from: September 2017
- Exams from: June 2019
- Specification code: 8552
- QAN code: 603/0984/2
We’ve refreshed and enhanced the content of our new GCSE, while retaining what you like about the outgoing specifications. The new qualification is modern and relevant, so students can learn about contemporary technologies, materials and processes, as well as established practices.
The new GCSE places greater emphasis on understanding and applying iterative design processes. Students will use their creativity and imagination to design and make prototypes that solve real and relevant problems, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values.
Teaching resources
Plan
Prepare for your teaching year. Information, support and services to help you deliver the specification.
Teach
Teaching resources that you can use to plan your lessons and support your students’ learning.
Assess
Prepare your students for assessment. Past papers, mark schemes and example answers.
Key dates
Series: June 2021
Start time: am
Duration: 2h Exam for GCSE Design and Technology (8552/W)
Specification news
AQA do understand how hectic it is to be a teacher and they really keep us up to date and show their awareness.

Juliette McGirr,
Teacher
Thinking of teaching GCSE Design and Technology with us?
Yes, tell me moreTalk to us
The customer support team.
8am–4pm Monday to Friday
Tel: 0161 957 3334
Email: dandt@aqa.org.uk