Textiles
Textiles is a two-year course where you will explore working with selecting, manipulating and the application of a range of materials and processes in order produce fabrics for different purposes. Both traditional and modern techniques, will be investigated to help formulate outcome’s purpose of self-expression and professional standard designs. Art textiles may be created to explore abstract ideas, communicate messages about the observed world and challenge existing designs.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
- GCSE Textiles: Grade 5
- Equivalent BTEC
- Portfolio
RECOMMENDED SUBJECT COMBINATIONS
WHAT TO EXPECT
Textiles is a two-year course where you will explore working with selecting, manipulating and the application of a range of materials and processes in order produce fabrics for different purposes. Both traditional and modern techniques, will be investigated to help formulate outcome’s purpose of self-expression and professional standard designs. Art textiles may be created to explore abstract ideas, communicate messages about the observed world and challenge existing designs.
UNITS STUDIED
- Component 1: Personal Investigation
- Component 2: Externally Set Task
HOW IT’S ASSESSED
- Component 1: A Portfolio of work which equates to 60% of the final grade.
- A supporting 1000–3000-word Contextual Essay.
- Component 2: Externally set exam with a 15-hour Examination at the end of the course in the second year.
TRANSFERABLE SKILLS
- Research and investigate
- Analyse and evaluate work
- Develop and experiment
- Refine work as it develops
PROGRESSION
Taking A-level Textiles can lead to a variety of exciting progression paths, both in education and careers. Here are some options:
Further Education
- Higher Education: Many students choose to pursue a degree in:
- Fashion Design
- Textile Design
- Fashion Marketing or Merchandising
- Fashion Communication
- Interior Design
- Sustainable Fashion
- Costume Design
- Foundation Courses: A foundation diploma in art and design can help students build a strong portfolio for university applications.
- Specialized Training: Some institutions offer courses focused on specific skills, such as pattern making, fabric technology, or fashion business.
Career Options
- Fashion Industry: Roles include:
- Fashion Designer
- Textile Designer
- Fashion Buyer
- Fashion Stylist
- Visual Merchandiser
- Textiles and Manufacturing: Careers in:
- Production Management
- Quality Control
- Textile Technology
- Art and Design: Opportunities in:
- Printmaking
- Surface Pattern Design
- Textile Art
- Education: Some graduates may choose to teach textiles or art in schools or community colleges.
- Entrepreneurship: Starting your own brand or business in fashion or textiles. Skills Development A-level Textiles helps develop valuable skills that are applicable in many fields, such as:
- Creative thinking
- Problem-solving
- Technical skills (sewing, pattern making)
- Project management
- Communication skills
- Industry Experience: Gaining experience through internships, work placements, or volunteering can enhance your resume and provide insights into your desired career path.
Overall, A-level Textiles opens doors to a diverse range of opportunities that blend creativity with practical skills.
WHY CHOOSE THIS SUBJECT?
This course continues to develop artistic practice and skills with a textiles focus. It enables students to further develop their individuality in their artistic practice, researching and responding to chosen artists and producing textile outcomes in response to design briefs. This course will build a professional portfolio required for higher level art based courses and apprenticeships.