Course overview
Textiles & Fashion Design is an ideal A-Level choice if you are interested in pursuing a career in textiles, fashion, costume design or a related area and will give you the skills to go on to further study or go out into the working world.
It is a practical course that offers an exploration of a wide variety of media and techniques such as print, weave, knit, embroidery, mixed media and fashion, costume and interior product design. You will also gain knowledge of historical and contemporary influences, artists and designers, along with an understanding of related industry sectors.
What will I study?
Year one focuses on building skills and knowledge of the subject area, through a variety of projects, including a live brief. Work will involve research, developing ideas using drawing, sketchbooks, portfolio boards, textile sampling, fashion/costume illustrations and the creation of a variety of outcomes. This is all supported by participation in regular techniques workshops.
Year two consists of a Personal Investigation (worth 60% of the final grade) and an Exam component (worth 40% of the final grade). This year promotes personal interpretation and the development of your own individual style.
Entry requirements
- Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including Maths.
- Grade 5 or above in English Language.
- Grade 5 or above in an Art & Design or Creative Media GCSE subject is preferred.
If you haven’t taken a GCSE in Art & Design or a Creative Media subject, you can still show a portfolio of work that shows your passion, ability and commitment to this course.
Why should I choose USP College?
You will visit museums, exhibitions and project-related sites, including trips to places like:
- Victoria & Albert Museum
- Fashion & Textiles Museum
- Royal Opera House Costume Stores
- Hyde Hall Gardens
You will also have the opportunity to develop professional and employability skills through subject-specific projects, live briefs and CPD (Continual Professional Development) days. You will also have the opportunity to get involved in exhibitions.
What could I do next?
Textiles & Fashion Design is an ideal A-Level choice if you are interested in fashion design or considering studying textiles, fashion, interiors or costume at university. You could also take the Foundation Diploma in Art & Design at USP College once you finish your A-Levels.
One of our former students has recently graduated from the Wimbledon College of Arts, part of University of the Arts London and one of the capital’s leading specialist art colleges. Whilst at the college she designed and created a bespoke evening gown for the
Mayor of Castle Point.