Fashion & Textiles

Level 3 Pathway - In order to enrol onto our Level 3 courses, students must have achieved a minimum of 5 grade 4s at GCSE Level across 4 different subject areas; this should ideally include a Grade 4 for English Language and Mathematics.

It is important that students also pay attention to any individual subject entry requirements.

It may be that a small number of students are recommended to sit AS qualifications at the end of Year 12 in order to inform decisions about progression into Year 13, however these AS examinations are standalone and do not contribute to the overall A Level qualification.

Why?

This subject is suitable for anyone who enjoys working within the wide arena of Fashion and Textiles. The course is suitable for students who enjoy practical and theoretical activities and who are keen to develop their designing and making abilities. Students will extend their knowledge and understanding of textile materials and components used in the manufacture of a wide range of textile and fashion items. Students will also develop a range of strategies for creating, communicating, developing and realising their own design ideas and will have the opportunity to work with a variety of textiles materials and equipment in the manufacture of prototypes and quality products. In addition, students will take an in depth look at the work of influential fashion designers and historical design styles as well as the commercial side of the present day industry. Students need to be able to work methodically, independently and as part of a team and should have the willingness to adopt a creative and innovative approach to practical tasks.

Course Structure

Students will be required to undertake a substantial and complex design and make task, including evaluation, in response to a context of their choice and the needs and wants of a user or market; this involves the production of a portfolio (50% of the A level grade). Through the project, the practical application of core technical and designing and making principles will be assessed. Students will produce a written or digital portfolio of work and a final prototype which will be evidenced photographically.

Students will also develop their knowledge of the technical aspects learning about fibres, fabrics and components - their performance characteristics and properties; methods of joining, finishing and enhancing fabrics and modern industrial and commercial practise. An appreciation of design influences, styles and movements will be investigated as well as an understanding of the requirements for textile and fashion design and development.

2 written examinations will be sat: Paper 1 - Technical Principles (30%) and Paper 2 - Designing and Making Principles (20%).

Extended Learning

Students are expected to keep up to date with current Fashion and Textiles related issues in the media and to dedicate themselves to completing the non-examination assessment tasks during independent study time as well as in lessons.

Ideally a level 2, grade 5 or above, qualification in Textiles/Design and Technology. Applicants not meeting these criteria may be accepted after interview