This Textiles course focusses on surface pattern and design while also giving students the opportunity to study many aspects of Textiles and make either 2D or 3D items. The specification studied is the OCR Art & Design: Textile Design. It may be taken alongside Fine Art, Graphic Communication or Photography

Chido Shahwe
Year 1
Students following the course explore surface textile design in its widest sense, through coursework projects and theoretical knowledge. Subjects covered include painting, print making, dying, applique, machine and hand stitch. The use of computer software is included in the course in order to aid the design process.
Year 2
In the second year students will choose their own areas of study and will set their own design briefs building upon the knowledge and skills that they have learnt in the first year. The work is much more independent with advice and guidance from the staff. Students are required to produce a written study about an artist or designer as part of their Personal Investigation.
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.
Enrichment
Students are encouraged to carry out first hand research and a number of trips are organized throughout the year to galleries and exhibitions.
Methods Of Assessment
All units will be marked internally by the Creative Arts team and will be moderated by the exam board.
Resources
The Textiles Studio is a spacious purpose-built room within a new Creative Arts Complex. There are a variety of sewing machines as well as screen printing facilities, an A1 printer and computers with Adboe Creative Suite.
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.
Charges
The cost of all trips and visits will be the responsibility of all students. In Year 1 a studio fee is required of £20 which contributes towards essential studio materials and resources. We would recommend students to purchase comprehensive art kit through abacus which currently costs £131.10. Financial assistance is available via the college Bursary Scheme