This creative and thought-provoking qualification gives students the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in a number of careers, especially those in the creative industries.

Lessons are taught in purpose built workshops at the Dene Magna School site, with a CAD/CAM suite. Students will investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put their learning into practice by designing and producing prototypes of their choice. Students will gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, alongside practical knowledge and skills.

Designing & Making Principals:

• Making skills using a wide variety of materials and processes

• Digital design and manufacture CAD/CAM

• Design processes and techniques

• Design for manufacture & design styles

• Health & safety

Technical Principals:

• Performance and characteristics of Fabric materials & their applications

• Enhancement of fabric materials and the use of finishes

• Modern industrial and commercial practice

Paper 1: Technical Principals - 2.5hrs, 120 marks (30%)

Paper 2: Designing & Making Principals - 1.5 hrs, 80 marks (20%)

NEA Project: Designing & Making a Prototype - 100 marks (50%)

• The coursework module, focussing on the practical application of learning to design and create a product

• The design process is documented to support the final piece

An A-Level in Textiles opens up the possibility of studying University courses in Fashion, Performance Sportswear Design or Contemporary Crafts, with employment opportunities at many levels including Apprenticeships. Students could become fashion illustrators, costumers or textile designers amongst many other careers.

“Textiles is a fun and expressive subject, where you can choose your own design briefs and incorporate your personal interests into your works. I loved taking this as an A-Level subject because it’s different from my other essay based subjects. I enjoy designing and sewing, as well as learning about different materials and the theoretical components of the course.”

“Textiles has allowed me complete creative freedom to develop myself as a seamstress.  I have enjoyed exploring different textiles techniques using the lesson time to do as I see fit. I also enjoyed revising all the theory.”

“Textiles gives no boundaries to your creativity. You are able to express yourself without judgement. It helps you find like minded people and happiness.”

“I like that we have to pick our own project titles as this means you stay motivated and interested throughout the course since it’s personal to you.”

Textiles Specification Links