Wallington High School for Girls

Business

Design & Technology

English & Media Studies

Food | Electronics | Graphics | Resistant Materials | Textiles

Textiles Technology is studied within Design & Technology. It is a highly creative subject, in which students are encouraged to think independently by designing individual products to be used by specific target markets or purposes.

The environmental and economic impact of textiles is also addressed, particularly when choosing fabrics and components. Students will also look at pattern, and the use of colour and shape, when designing products. Textiles Technology is an important subject to study as it plays a big part in the world in which we live.

Key Stage 3

In Years 7 & 8, students follow a carousel within Design & Technology and spend eight weeks in each material area. In Textiles Technology, students are taught how to thread up and operate a sewing machine correctly and safely. A Design-and-Make Project is followed, which allows students to develop their own skills and understanding of both decorative techniques, such as embroidery, appliqué and couching, along with knowledge of different construction processes, such as seams and constructing handles. Students are encouraged to develop their own creativity within Textiles Technology and there are opportunities for students to work after school, with supervision, to continue with their work or further develop their skills.

In Year 9, students will study two material areas within Design & Technology. Within Textiles Technology, students will have the opportunity to develop further a range of design and practical skills. This enables students to have greater knowledge prior to their GCSE choices for Year 10.

Key Stage 4

During Key Stage 4, students in Textiles Technology are introduced to a wider range of practical techniques and learning opportunities. Design-and-Make tasks are set, in which students are encouraged to show a more creative, independent approach. In Year 10, students produce two Design-and-Make projects. Recent examples of products have included bags (inspired by ethnic cultures), skirts and soft furnishing products. Students undertake a range of tasks, including research, designing and evaluating. The theory behind Textiles Technology is taught alongside the practical projects.

During the Summer Term, after completing the Year 10 exam, students embark on their Controlled Assessment. The Controlled Assessment consists of students producing an A3 Design Folder and a practical outcome. This is worth 60% of the final GCSE grade. Students will also complete a two-hour written paper which follows the AQA specification.

Key Stage 5

Students who wish to extend and broaden their understanding and skills may choose to study the AQA AS-level and A2-level Product Design (Textiles) courses. An extension to prior learning from GCSE Design Technology, students cover topics, including Fibres and Yarn, fabric manufacture, fabric finishes, environmental concerns and product manufacture. Students are expected to produce a coursework folder of Design and Research along with a practical outcome.

Previous students have produced a range of products, including fashion dresses and tops, children's wear and soft furnishings.

Enrichment Opportunities

Students are encouraged to use the Textiles facilities after school to continue with their class work and Controlled Assessments. Additional extra-curricular opportunities, including clubs, are often provided for students in Key Stage 3. Year 11 students are also given priority when completing practical pieces after school.

Why Textiles Technology?

Many of our students who choose to study Textiles Technology at A-level, go on to study at Art Foundation and degree level. Higher education courses may include fashion design, advertising and promotion, pattern drafting, footwear design, product manufacture and fashion photography.