Textiles

Textiles

A Level 

Offering a gateway into the creative industries, Textiles A Level encourages a thoughtful approach to working with fabric: into it, with it, printing on to it, or using it in three dimensions. It covers ideas that work directly with pattern design, fashion design, installation, surface embellishment, printmaking, digital media and interior design.

We aim to stretch the imagination of students as they approach their work, to help them build a skill base that allows for creative development and preparation for entering a degree in art and design or an art and design foundation course.

"There are no boundaries for what can be fabric." Issey Miyake

Our recently extended and refurbished faculty is a spacious purpose-built art facility which includes gallery space, textiles, 3D room, photography dark room, IT facilities for digital photography with the full Adobe Creative Suite, animation, a printmaking workshop, library and dedicated studios. In the Sixth Form each student is provided with their own work space, helping their work develop in exciting ways.

What do I need before starting this course?

Textiles is offered to candidates who demonstrate ability and interest in the subject, a grade 5 or above in GCSE Art, or a competent portfolio of work.

What will I learn?

A Level Textile Design, you’ll develop practical skills in embroidery, printmaking, weaving, digital design, garment construction, and surface embellishment. You’ll explore sustainable practices, material innovation, and cultural influences, while building a personal style through sketchbooks and samples. The course includes critical analysis of textile artists and movements. Students may work in one or more areas, including fashion design, costume, digital textiles, printed/dyed materials, interior design, constructed textiles, and domestic textiles like wallpaper or soft furnishings. The course encourages creative experimentation, with
research into textile artists and cultural influences to inspire your own designs. Through sketchbooks, samples, and final pieces, you’ll build a strong portfolio, improve technical abilities, and gain confidence in presenting and evaluating your art.

How is the course assessed?

  • Component 1: Personal Investigation (60%) 
    A practical portfolio exploring techniques (e.g. embroidery, printing, construction) and a personal theme.
    A written essay (1000–3000 words) linking your work to artists/designers.
  • Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%) • Respond to an AQA theme with preparatory work (research, samples, designs).
  • Create a final piece in a 15-hour supervised exam. • Assessed on AO1–AO4: idea development, technical skill, research, and presentation.
  • No written exam—100% practical/coursework.

What can I go on to study?

After studying Textiles A Level, you could pursue a foundation course, a degree in fashion, textile design, costume, or interior design, or careers in styling, merchandising, or theatrical
costume design.