Design and Technology: Fashion and Textiles

• What is it that designers actually do? • How and why do fashion and interior trends develop? • How do social and cultural issues influence the creative industries?

The A Level Design and Technology course answers these questions, and many more. It is an inspiring, thought-provoking and creative subject exploring fashion and textiles in depth. It equips pupils with the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in a number of careers, especially those in the thriving creative industries. The course provides insight into the way designers, manufacturers and other industry professionals work. Pupils investigate influences on design and technology, putting their learning into practice by producing prototypes of their ideas.

Pupils study a range of materials, including new technologies such as wearable electronics and chromatic pigments. They develop a technical understanding of how textile products function and how they are made, thereby supporting the design and manufacture of their own design solutions. They gain an understanding of wider design principles and commercial issues, as well as the ability to identify market needs and opportunities for new products, to initiate and develop design solutions and make and test prototypes. The theoretical aspects of the course are taught as much as possible through practical tasks, although pupils are also provided with a textbook to support their learning.

For pupils interested in developing creativity, who enjoy experimenting with materials and working collaboratively, this course brings a great deal of satisfaction. The coursework element in particular provides an opportunity to be artistic, imaginative and experimental. It has been designed to reflect the way contemporary designers actually work. Throughout the year pupils have the opportunity to visit exhibitions and participate in workshops to broaden their understanding of the subject and its place in the modern world.

Like any other A Level subject, this course can be used as a credible qualification to progress onto any degree course, as well as other Higher Education or professional opportunities. It is particularly good preparation for a career in the creative industries. It can be combined with English for journalism, Drama for theatre costume design, Art for any creative degree, History for costume perspectives, Science for the ever-expanding range of textile science degrees, and more besides. This course strengthens pupils’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are relevant to any future career. Through the analysis of historical cultural, social and economic changes, as well as contemporary issues, girls develop a critical understanding of the world we live in today. It is recommended that pupils have taken a GCSE in Textiles and have a sound ability in Mathematics and Science.

Examination board: AQA Specification Code: 7562

Coursework: A ‘Design Project’: 50% – evidenced through a written or digital portfolio and photographic evidence of the final prototype/s

Written papers: Technical Principles examination paper: 30% – 2 hours 30 minutes The Designing and Making Principles examination paper: 20% – 1 hour 30 minutes

c.mason@sherborne.com