6th Form Prospectus - 2025_26

Ar t & Design : Textiles What’s it all about? Are you creative and imaginative? Do you enjoy exploring ideas and looking at things in different ways? Do you enjoymaking? If so, you should consider a course in textile design. It is a practical course in which you learn by doing, so you will be able to create imaginative personal work. Practical work is produced by researching and developing ideas using drawing, digital exploration, sketchbooks and worksheets, supported by critical evaluation and an awareness of contemporary and historical influences. The study of fashion and textiles is exciting and challenging. Students work with a range of different materials and produce original, experimental work, whether sublimation printing or fabric manipulation. They are encouraged to look at textiles and fashions fromdifferent periods and cultures and interpret those designs using a repertoire of different techniques and processes. “Fashion is very important. It is life-enhancing and, like everything that gives pleasure, it is worth doing well.” - Vivienne Westwood What next? “The UK’s thriving fashion industry makes a huge contribution to the economy,” AQA Qualifications Developer Ben Galvin. “It employs hundreds of thousands of people and is one of our most sought-after exports. It’s important that we support the growth of this industry by developing young people with a solid understanding of the commercial, creative and technical sides of the trade. This new A Level will enable students to learn about some of the most influential and iconic designers and movements to demonstrate the history of the industry and its importance within our society.” Fashion and textiles is a major employer in the UK offering a highly diverse and exciting range of career opportunities: fashion designer, fabric designer, pattern cutter, interior design, textile art, fashion journalism, stylist, window dresser, retail buyer, theatre designer, sportswear designer, fashion promotion/ merchandising, upholsterer, wallpaper designer, teacher or lecturer, footwear design, fashion retailing, costume design for theatre and film and/or fashion illustration. *Eligibility for students who have not studied DT/Art Textiles may be considered with a portfolio/meeting to establish suitable skills & knowledge. Exam and Assessment Information: AQA Component 1 – Personal Investigation At A level in component 1 you will develop work for a personal investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme supported by written material. This will count for 60% of your total A Level marks. Component 2 –Examination In component 2 you will produce personal work in response to one of eight exciting starting points which will count for 40% of your total A-level marks. It is a 15 hour practical exam at the end of the course. To get started: Level 4 or above in a GCSE Design and Technology subject or Art is requisite to access the course fully. You will also need to show commitment in meeting frequent deadlines to produce an extensive portfolio and be willing to work beyond the four hours of lesson-time in order to fully access the facilities at your disposal. Textile design course content: Fashion design • Fashion textiles • Costume design Printed, dyed fabrics & materials • Domestic textiles Wallpaper • Interior design • Constructed textiles Art textiles • Digital textiles • Installed textiles Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 and above including English and Maths AND Grade 4 in Design & Technology or Art Textiles Our students say … “Studying textile design at King James’s has been an incredible creative outlet for me and has provided me with the opportunity to use the great facilities and challenge myself in all aspects of creativity. The entire staff and support team are incredibly supportive to every student and go above and beyond in their efforts to assist us in creating our best work. Not only during lesson time, but after school and into early evenings; such is their dedication that they make you feel like you are their main priority.” 19