Curriculum Area: Creative Arts and Design
Fashion AS/A Level
The specification studied is the OCR Art and Design: Textiles. Only the Fashion Specialism of the specification is studied. It may be taken alongside Art and Design, Photography, Graphic Communication, History of Art and/or Design and Technology: Graphics Products. It cannot be taken alongside Textile Design.
Advanced Subsidiary (AS)
The AS is studied in the first year. It forms 50% of the assessment weighting of the full A-Level. AS can be taken as a stand alone specification or as part of the full A-Level course.
The assessment of the AS is divided into two units.
| Unit One | Coursework Portfolio | 60% |
| Unit Two | Controlled Assignment | 40% |
During the first term the students will learn all about the theory of fibres and fabrics, garment construction processes, industrial manufacturing and marketing. They will also learn fashion design and pattern cutting. In the second term the students will design and make a garment. They will then sit a five hour practical exam.
Advanced Level (A2)
During the second year of study the assessment is divided into a further two units.
| Unit Three | Personal Investigation (unit 3 includes a sustained piece of writing of 1,000 – 3,000 words) | 30% |
| Unit Four | Controlled Assignment | 20% |
Students will have the opportunity to study Fashion Design from both a historical and contemporary perspective and will be encouraged to design their own garments. They will learn how to make their own patterns and will make a variety of garments. This is a rigorous and technical course which is great fun.
Methods of Teaching and Learning
The course is taught by specialist practitioners with additional specialists brought in for specific projects.
All practical sessions are supported by demonstrations, a theoretical background and critical studies.
Students are encouraged to carry out first hand research and a number of trips are organized. In the past these have included: Visits to London, Bath Museum of Costume, and the Theatre Royal in Bath.
Enrichment
A number of visits to exhibitions and museums take place during the year. Students are encouraged to enter fashion design competitions as well as taking part in the annual fashion show/photo shoot when possible, in the summer term.
Methods of Assessment
All units will be marked internally by the Creative Arts team and will be moderated by the exam board.
Resources
The Fashion Studio is a purpose-built room with a variety of sewing machines (including computerised ones) and an overlocker. There are a number of adjustable dress forms for product development.
Progression
This subject provides a sound basis for students who wish to proceed to Further or Higher Education as well as being a useful background for any career in this field. These include: designer, buyer, pattern cutter, marketing, advertising, journalism, manufacture management in the Fashion or Textile industry, costume for theatre/TV, furniture, conservation and restoration and Interior Design.
Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirement is 5 GCSE’s at grade C or above or the equivalent from a minimum of 4 subject areas including GCSE English. GCSE Maths and Science at grade C or above are also desirable. It is recommended however, that those wishing to enter the fashion group have studied Textiles to GCSE Level. Confident use of the sewing machine is essential for all students considering this course.
Charges
Students are expected to pay towards all visits. They are also expected to provide or pay for all materials used for finished items. Financial assistance is available if needed