A Level
36
WHAT IS TEXTILES?
A Level Textiles is an art-based subject
in which you will experiment with a
wide range of techniques and processes
including; drawing and painting, hand
and machine embroidery, printmaking,
garment construction, felt making,
ceramics, screen-printing and many more.
A Level Textiles opens up many
opportunities in the field of Art & Design.
If you have a passion for art and textiles
and are interested in potential careers
in industries such as fashion, arts and
crafts, fine art, printed textiles, ceramics,
fashion marketing or journalism, then
A Level Textiles is a good starting point.
WHAT WILL YOU STUDY?
In your first year, you will have a
portfolio project and an exam project.
Your portfolio project will enable you to
learn techniques including, hand/machine
embroidery, using the sewing machines,
printmaking, ceramics, fashion illustration
and constructing a garment/wall hanging/
jewellery making. With the exam unit, you
are given a range of questions to choose
from. You will spend time researching
your chosen theme through a series of
observational drawings, photographs and
visits to museums/galleries.
In your second year, you will have to
complete a Personal Investigation and
an Externally Set Assignment. The first
unit is a chance to work towards your
own interests. You can choose your
own theme to work from. Themes in
the past have included architecture,
narrative, natural forms, events in
history, man-made objects, cultural
themes and many more. As well as
your practical work, you will produce
an essay of 2000-3000 words.
WHAT NEXT?
Many of our students choose to stay
at Cardinal Newman to complete the
Foundation Art and Design course,
whereas others go straight to university.
We have very strong links with
universities and recent destinations
have included; Manchester Metropolitan
University, London College of Fashion,
Bath Spa University, Central Saint Martins
London and Edinburgh University.
WHAT OTHER SUBJECTS GO
WELL WITH THIS SUBJECT?
Fine Art, Business Studies, Media
Studies, Photography and English.
TEXTILES
CAREERS
• Costume designer
• Fashion designer
• Interior designer
37
DID YOU KNOW?
It takes 700 gallons
of water to make one
cotton shirt.
“ I was really impressed with the Art
Department which was important to me when
choosing a College as I am studying two art
subjects. I have enjoyed the freedom that is
given to students here, particularly with
my artwork. I have enjoyed seeing my work
improve during my time here.”
Faye Withers
SCHOOL: Holy Cross
SUBJECTS: A Levels in Textiles, Fine Art and French