Textiles AS/A Level

Curriculum Area: Creative Arts and Design

Textiles AS/A Level

This is a mixed media course and students may study any aspect of Textiles and may make either 2D or 3D items. The specification studied is the OCR Art and Design: Textiles. It may be taken alongside Fine Art, Graphics, Photography or History of Art. It cannot be taken alongside Fashion.

Advanced Subsidiary (AS)

The AS is studied in the first year. It forms 50% of the assessment weighting of the full A-Level. AS can be taken as a stand alone specification or as part of the full A-Level course.

The assessment of the AS is divided into two units.

Unit One Coursework Portfolio 60% Unit Two Controlled Assignment 40%

During the first term the students will learn a variety of skills which will include hand and machine embroidery, dyeing, felt making, other construction techniques including fusing and trapping. In the second term students will have the opportunity to begin to further develop skills in their own chosen areas.

Advanced Level (A2)

During the second year of study the assessment is divided into a further two units.

Unit Three Personal Investigation (unit 3 includes a sustained piece of writing of 1,000 – 3,000 words) 30% Unit Four Controlled Assignment 20%

In the second year students will choose their own areas of study and will set their own design briefs. The work is much more independent with advice and guidance from the staff.

Methods of Teaching and Learning

The course is taught by specialist practitioners with additional specialists brought in for specific projects.

All practical sessions are supported by demonstrations, a theoretical background and critical studies.

Enrichment

Students are encouraged to carry out first hand research and a number of trips are organized throughout the year to galleries and exhibitions.

Methods of Assessment

All units will be marked internally by the Creative Arts team and will be moderated by the exam board.

Resources

The Textiles Studio is a spacious purpose-built room within a new Creative Arts Complex. There are a variety of sewing machines including computerised ones and overlockers. A full range of printing equipment is available including a large print table.

Progression

This subject provides a sound basis for students who wish to proceed to Further or Higher Education as well as being a useful background for any career in this field. These include: designer, buyer, pattern cutter, marketing, advertising, journalism, manufacture management in the Fashion or Textile industry, costume for theatre/TV, furniture, conservation and restoration and Interior Design.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement is 5 GCSE’s at Grade C or above or the equivalent from 4 subject areas including GCSE English.

Charges

Students are expected to pay towards all visits. They are also expected to provide or pay for all materials used for finished items. Every student is expected to have their own basic equipment (which may be purchased from the college). Financial assistance is available if required.

Fashion Show

Students are encouraged to take part in this annual event