AS / A2 Textiles

WHY TAKE THIS COURSE?
Do you enjoy working with fabrics, mixed media, colour, pattern and texture? This course offers an exciting, creative, and fine art approach to AS/A2 Textiles. It gives students the opportunity to progress onto a range of courses at University including; Textiles and Fashion Design, Theatre Costume, Fashion Promotion and Styling, Fashion Retail and Management.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?
You will learn traditional and contemporary textile and fabric manipulation techniques, to produce garments, fashion accessories, installations or wall-hangings. You will develop research skills by studying contemporary and historical textile and fashion designers and artists as well as developing your drawing and problem solving skills as you work through assignments. Critical and creative skills will be enhanced as you initiate, develop and realise your ideas through a personal, practical art and design working process.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
The AS course consists of one coursework assignment, that is based on a theme set by tutors. There is also an externally set practical examination project of approximately eight weeks where you will produce initial ideas, developmental work, critical research, and a final outcome.

On the A2 course, there is a coursework assignment with a supporting 1500 word illustrated essay which is related to your practical textile work. There is also an externally set examination project with an eight week preparatory period, followed by a fifteen hour timed exam to produce the final outcome.
All units are internally assessed and then externally moderated at the end of the year. During each unit, staff will assess your work, giving you feedback on your progress and time to improve your coursework units.

WHAT SKILLS AND SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED?
A genuine interest in Textiles and commitment to the subject is essential. You will also need to have at least a grade C at GCSE in an Art and Design subject or GCSE Textiles Technology.

WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
Students can progress directly onto textiles and fashion related degree courses at University after they have completed their A levels. However there are some Universities which prefer students to take an Art Foundation course prior to starting a degree to broaden their experience.

PRIESTLEY EXTRA
Gallery visits are an important part of both the AS and A2 programmes. You will have the opportunity to listen to visiting speakers from university and participate in workshops with practising artists and designers. You will also visit the end of year degree shows at a local University. Students can also participate in the College catwalk show.