A Level Textile Design
Board: EDUQAS(WJEC)
About this subject
This is a specialist A Level; the disciplines within Textiles will include constructed textiles, dyed, printed textiles, fine art textiles and fashion. It encompasses traditional handcrafts and computer-aided technology. Students are supported and encouraged as independent learners, developing an artistic and personal professionalism towards their studies and possible future careers in design. It also features an integral careers programme, which can include work placement opportunities and live briefs within these subject specific areas.
We are uniquely placed within the fashion industry with ex-students holding positions within prominent organisations; for example Burberry, Glyndebourne Opera House, Paul Smith, Warner Brothers and several with their own creative companies
Learning styles
The units require students to take a dynamic personal approach to project work through the development of a variety of skills. These include investigative, analytical, experimental, practical, technical and expressive skills, as well as aesthetic understanding and critical judgement.
Each piece of work builds upon the knowledge, understanding and skills gained from the last; this helps students’ work to progress naturally in complexity, maturity and individuality.
Students are guided through the course by a range of learning experiences:
- one to one tutorials to review progress and set individual targets.
- group presentations to discuss homework, research and approaches.
- studio based skills sessions.
- personal research and study.
- gallery visits, lectures, slide and video presentations.
Subject Combinations and Progression
This specialist A Level can be taken alone or alongside A Levels in Contemporary Fine Art, Graphic Communication or Photography.
Typically we send 70% of our A Level cohort to specialist Arts Degrees and Foundation courses. For example, we currently have Textiles students at Central St Martins, London College of Fashion, Bath Spa, Nottingham Trent, Falmouth and Ravensbourne.
Subject Modules and Assessment
Component 1: Personal Investigation.
Self-initiated coursework consisting of preparation work, exploratory work and final pieces (60% of total qualification).This unit includes a 1000 word essay on a related artist/designer or theme
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment.
Preparation period and a 15-hour examination. (40% of total qualification).
Entry Requirements
Grade 4 or above GCSE Art or Textiles essential for this specialist course.