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Devonport High School for Girls

Textiles Design

Name of Head of Department

Mrs J Tribe, BEd(Hons)

Statement of Intent

Textiles Design at Devonport High School for Girls is a highly enjoyable, creative subject where practical activities are a central part of learning. We aim to inspire and challenge our students to try out new skills and encourage confidence and independence. Personal organisation and an ability to think ahead and plan are essential qualities that we work hard to develop. We encourage students in lessons to make decisions, think independently and evaluate their work. Resilience and problem-solving are essential skills for making excellent progress and enabling students to reach their full potential. We want everyone to be proud of their achievements in Textiles Design, which not only allows them to express their creativity but also equips them with crucial life skills. 

As Pablo Picasso said, ‘I begin with an idea, and then it becomes something else’. 

In Textiles Design, students begin by learning how to use the equipment correctly, ensuring a safe working environment within the room. They start with using the sewing machine, as well as some basic hand stitching, and introduced to a range of new techniques. Initially, we focus on the skills needed for garment making- seams, hems, pockets, pattern cutting and planning. As students move up the school, there is an increasing use of artists as inspiration and further techniques trialled and explored. At GCSE, the work is very student focussed. We follow the AQA Textile design course, which forms part of the suite of Art Specifications which encourages independent ideas and projects. Students work to the same theme initially, then develop their own ideas referencing the artist research they have completed, so all the outcomes are original and varied. As the course progresses, students choose their own theme to work from. They can work in a variety of areas, from costume design, interior decoration, fashion, surface design, printing, dyeing and embellishing. Recycling and reusing are considered, both for cost and environmental reasons. 

Middle Years Exam and Specification Information
   

Assessment:

Component 1: Portfolio 60%
Component 2: Externally set assignment 40%

Full details of the specification and assessment criteria can be found on the AQA website GCSE Art and Design: Textiles Design specification

Extra-curricular activities 

Students are encouraged to take part in a variety of enrichment activities led by the Design and Technology department, including lunchtime clubs that enable students to get help with practical work or aspects of their controlled assessment or simply to enhance their practical skills.