Design and Technology - Fashion and Textiles A Level

Applications Open: - now open

Applications Close: - We would, ideally, like applications to be submitted by Thursday 7th January 2027, 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:

At least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and a grade 4 in Mathematics

Meet the entry requirements for at least 3 full A Level / vocational subjects. Each subject has its own specific entry criteria. These can be found on the individual subject pages.

Additional considerations

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

This creative and thought-provoking course is based on the design and manufacture of products for everyday use. You need to have a real interest in how the things around us work as well as how and what they are made from. Product Design requires both dedication and hard work to achieve success.

The course gives students the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in several careers, especially those in the creative industries. They will investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put their learning in to practice by producing products of their choice. Students will gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, alongside the knowledge and skills sought by higher education and employers.

The qualification is Linear. In the first year you will develop your graphical & 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.

Students are guided through the design process via a series of projects to develop their intellectual curiosity and are encouraged to think creatively, innovatively and critically through focused research and the exploration of design opportunities arising from the needs, wants and values of users and clients. Their work is recorded in portfolios for each project and is assessed against the key objectives: AO1 to identify, investigate and outline design possibilities to address needs and wants; AO2 to design and make prototypes that are fit for purpose; AO3 to Analyse and evaluate decisions and outcomes; A04 to demonstrate and apply knowledge and understanding of technical and design and making principles.

Component 1: Written examination

• Paper 1: Technical Principles 2.30 hours 30% of A level award

• Paper 2: Designing and Making Principles 1.30 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 (digital) design portfolio

and photographic evidence of progress and completion of final prototype approximately 45 A3 pages.

At least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and a grade 4 in Mathematics

Product design equips students with the skills to analyse, evaluate, design, plan and make. The subject fits well with Art and the STEM subjects and is a good foundation for careers such as Fashion, Architecture, Marketing, Graphic Design, Engineering and Industrial 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.