This is the Design CAPS Document (Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement) for the Further Education and Training Phase, Grades 10-12, issued by the South African Department of Basic Education. It sets out what must be taught, learnt and assessed in Design across Grades 10, 11 and 12, and is relevant for the 2026 and 2027 school years. The subject covers the design process and factors influencing it, design production and time management, and design theory including the history of design and design literacy.
The following document, Design CAPS Document Grades 10-12.pdf, is the full document.
CAPS Document Brief
Design CAPS Document Grades 10-12 kavo-014
Design is defined as a creative problem-solving process that includes the study of both design practice and design theory, involving problem identification, planning, research, innovation, conceptualisation, experimentation and critical reflection. Its three repeating topics each term are design process and factors influencing the process, design production and time management and safe practice, and design theory.
The document runs to 70 pages and is organised into four sections. Section 1 introduces the CAPS framework in general, Section 2 introduces Design, its specific aims, time allocation and overview of topics, Section 3 sets out term plans and content per grade, and Section 4 covers assessment in Design.
Learners are expected to develop their ability to analyse, invent, innovate and construct visual language, and to develop knowledge, technical abilities and skills in the conceptualisation, production and context of design. The subject also builds awareness of design as a tool for social change, its economic and historical significance, and career opportunities in the design industry.
Grade
10-12
Subject
Design
Phase
Further Education and Training (FET)
Curriculum
South African (CAPS)
School Years
2026 and 2027