Page 29 - Sixth Form prospectus 2020

COURSE DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY:

TITLE FASHION AND TEXTILES

A grade 5 or above in GCSE DT or art. If you have not previously

SPECIFIC ENTRY studied one of these subjects at GCSE, grade 5 or above in GCSE
English language will be required. The ability to confidently use a
REQUIREMENTS
sewing machine would also be an advantage, along with a basic
knowledge of garment construction.
The specification is modern and relevant, so students can learn about
contemporary technologies, materials and processes, as well as
established practices. This qualification places great emphasis on
understanding and applying iterative design processes. Students will
use their creativity and imagination to design and make prototypes that
solve real and relevant problems, considering their own and others’
needs, wants and values.
It will cover the major historical design styles and movements including
CONTENT OF punk, pop art, art nouveau and minimalism. Alongside this, students
will analyse socio-economic influences on fashion such as social media,
COURSE the role of women in society, music, World War Two, and the rise of

street culture.
Students will learn how to create their own designs, and work with a
variety of textiles and new design technologies such as wearable
technology. They will also study the commercial side of fashion,
including branding and marketing.
Students will take an in depth look at the work of influential designers
such as Chanel, Dior, Mary Quant, Yves Saint Laurent, Pierre Cardin,
Vivienne Westwood, Gaultier and McQueen.
Will consist of 2 written papers.
Paper 1: technical principles. 2½ hours, 30% of the A level.
EXAMINATIONS Questions consist of a mixture of short answer and extended responses.
AND Paper 2: design and making principles. 1½ hours, 20% of the A level.
Section A: product analysis.
ASSESSMENTS Section B: commercial manufacture.

NEA: substantial design and make project. 50% of the A level.
Supporting design portfolio and final prototype.
The UK’s thriving fashion industry makes a huge contribution to the
economy. It employs hundreds of thousands of people and is one of our
SKILLS, LINKS most sought after exports. The range of careers within the industry is
AND vast and varied.
The NEA coursework undertaken, and the work produced, will provide
PROGRESSION evidence of all the key skills, creativity alongside the student's ability to

problem solve, that is required to project manage. This often forms the
basis of discussion at interview.
Head of Textiles: Mrs K Jackson
CONTACT
katejackson@keswick.cumbria.sch.uk