Design and Technology - Fashion and Textiles A Level

Applications Open: - 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - We would, ideally, like applications to be submitted by Thursday 8th January 2026, when planning for the timetable will begin, but applications will be accepted after this date

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

Minimum Entry Requirements

The admissions criteria for the Sixth Form are as follows:

- A minimum of 6 separately identifiable GCSE subjects (or equivalent) at an average grade of 5.5 or above

- These 6 subjects must include at least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and at least a grade 4 in Mathematics

- You will require a grade 6 or above in most subjects you wish to study at A Level

- To study Mathematics, Modern Foreign Languages or a Science subject you will require a grade 7

- To study Economics a grade 7 or above in Mathematics is required and a 6+ or above in Business or a related subject

- Students may be able to study a Science subject with a 6 grade but their 4th option choice must be STEM Access forming part of your Personal Enrichment Pathway

- For Further Mathematics you will need an 8 or 9

- Short Courses count as half a GCSE

- A positive attitude in your chosen subjects and a respect for school aims, objectives and ethos

- Commitment to the expectations of the Sixth Form and the school community

- Students will not be admitted if they have not completed the appropriate paperwork

The AQA A Level in Fashion and Textiles is a creative and thought-provoking course that combines engineering, science, and design with practical and technical skills. It is ideal for students who have an interest in fashion, textiles, sustainability, and innovation, and who are keen to explore how design can solve real-world problems.

This course encourages students to become confident designers with a clear understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and the social, cultural, and environmental impact of textile production. It blends creativity with technical knowledge, preparing students for further study or a wide range of careers in the fashion and design industries.

The qualification is Linear. In the first year you will develop your knowledge & technical skills using both computer and traditional methods. You will also produce several scale models and working prototypes. In the second year Students will sit all examinations and submit their non-examination assessment work which will include one major project with a prototype as the outcome.

Unit Outline:

Component 1: Written Exam

Paper 1: Technical principles: 2.5 hours 30% of A-level award

Paper 2: Designing and making principles: 1.5 hours 20% of A-level award

Component 2: Substantial design and make task

Non-Exam Assessment: 45 hours 50% of A level award

Evidence: Written or digital design portfolio and photographic evidence of final prototype.

The admissions criteria for the Sixth Form are as follows:

- A minimum of 6 separately identifiable GCSE subjects (or equivalent) at an average grade of 5.5 or above

- These 6 subjects must include at least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and at least a grade 4 in Mathematics

- DT GCSE: Preferred: Grade 6, Minimum: Grade 5 and Maths GCSE: Preferred: Grade 6, Minimum: Grade 5

Fashion and Textiles equips students with the skills to analyse, evaluate, design, plan and make. The subject fits well with Art, Photography, Business and the STEM subjects and is a good foundation for careers such as Fashion Design, Marketing, Buying, Fashion Journalism, Materials Science, Costume design. It is recommended that students should have the skills and knowledge associated with GCSE Design Technology or equivalent to be suited to this course. However, a willingness to study around the subject and to design, evaluate and develop skills with careful thought and reflection are essential.

"In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different." – Coco Chanel