Textiles play an important part in our lives and are essential to our well-being and comfort. Textiles are a large part of differentiating cultures and history.
Textiles at Unity involves exploring and experimenting with a wide range of techniques such as; transfer printing, batik, block printing, needle punch, appliqué and stencilling. Students use these skills to produce imaginative and creative products such as cushions, pencil cases, drawstring bags and play mats for infants. These skills are developed through the design Technology Curriculum in Phases 1,2, 3 and 4. Then GCSE Textiles can be taken as an option in Phase 5.
This subject as a GCSE Option
Subject - Design & Technology Textiles
Qualification - GCSE
Levels - 1 and 2
Lessons per week - 2
What will I study?
Textiles involves looking at a wide range of textile products from clothing and culture, wall-hangings to cushions. Our students look at the manufacturing processes and the technology behind their design. They explore and experiment with a large variety of different techniques ranging from image transfer and batik work though to appliqué techniques. These will be developed further through product development, presentation skills and also the manufacturing of a final design.
How will I be assessed?
The final GCSE grade is decided by combining two assessed components. These are:
60% Controlled Assessment Task
For the Controlled Assessment the students expected to present a folder consisting of design work. It should demonstrate their Design and Technology abilities and show an understanding of materials, components, processes, techniques and industrial practices whilst evaluating processes and products. The folder will also display a process of thoughts and clearly layout the way the final design has been developed and produced.
40% Written Exam
The students will sit an exam. They will answer questions by drawing designs and producing written responses which will involve being tested on their knowledge and understanding of Textiles.
Other information
The Textiles room is open after school for you to continue with your GCSE coursework.
Where does it lead?
GCSE: Textiles is a pathway to both further and higher education and employment.
Design and technology is a broad subject. Students will have begun to specialise in particular aspects of their subject during their examination courses, and some of these lead directly to specialised courses in further and higher education, including engineering, electronic products, textiles technology and product design.
In addition, design and technology provides a useful platform for further study in areas such as management, ergonomics, occupational therapy, urban planning and education.
Textiles college courses including:
- GCE A2 Level Textiles
- L2 Award in Textiles
- L3 Award in Textiles
- National Diploma in Textiles (theatre)
- National Diploma in Textiles Fashion