This is a broad and flexible course which allows students to develop an appreciation of the creative process through practical exploration of a range of 2D and 3D media, material, techniques and processes. Students will explore the work of famous artists, designers and craftspeople from different times, societies and cultures.
Curriculum
KS3
In KS3 Textiles is studied on a carousel. We explore a range of projects that are designed to develop specific skills in each year of KS3. Students will develop their ability to think creatively and to form expressive responses to a range of tasks. Projects are designed to develop skills in creative thought, dexterity, and textiles techniques and subject specific equipment. Embedded in the curriculum is the opportunity to develop research and communication skills.
KS4
Textiles is a versatile practice that involves the creation, selection and manipulation of textiles media such as fabric, yarns and fibres, using processes such as weaving, knitting, stitching and printing to create designs and products. Students are given the opportunity to develop ideas for a wide range of outcomes.
Students will develop the ability to:
- Develop an understanding of the whole world of textiles using a practical approach.
- Develop and learn new textiles skills.
- Design and make high quality textile outcomes.
This course will encourage creativity and design awareness within the context of textiles. Coursework will consist of work in a range of different textiles media for Component 1 (60%), for example; Batik, drawing (using colour, various media), fabric print design, photography, sublimation printing and sculptural textiles.
Contextual studies help students to develop an understanding of contemporary and traditional textiles History.
Supporting studies will be generated in a range of media/scales and will support more sustained outcomes.
KS5
The KS4 course allows entry to Art, craft & Design at KS5. This is a widely expressive art based course that will allow students to continue to express their ideas in a range of media. The opportunity in KS5 allows further focus in a wide range of areas of study, including; painting & drawing, lens/light based media (photography), printing, textiles media, sculpture and digital art. Skills are refined with the opportunity for extended study in your chosen area.
Supporting studies will be generated in a range of media/scales and will support more sustained outcomes.
The course will develop:
- intellectual, imaginative, creative and intuitive capabilities
- investigative, analytical, experimental, practical, technical and expressive skills, aesthetic understanding and critical judgement
- independence of mind in developing, refining and communicating own ideas, own intentions and own personal outcomes
- an interest in, enthusiasm for and enjoyment of art, craft and design
- experience of working with a broad range of media
- an understanding of the interrelationships between art, craft and design processes and an awareness of the contexts in which they operate
- knowledge and experience of real-world contexts and, where appropriate, links to the creative industries
- knowledge and understanding of art, craft, design and media and technologies in contemporary and past societies and cultures
- an awareness of different roles, functions, audiences and consumers of art, craft and design.
Visits/Extra Curricular
Visits are arranged to London Galleries and museums during the two-year GCSE course.
The Royal Academy visit to run an Outreach workshop delivered by a practising artist. KS4 and KS5 students have the opportunity to take part.
Visiting artists will come in to school to run workshops/talk about their work.
During enrichment week a professional artist visits the school to discuss their working practice and run a workshop for Year 8 students.
Each week enrichment clubs are offered in a variety of activities including; Textiles/fashion and the Design rooms are regularly open after school and at lunchtimes to allow students to catch up or practice their skills in ‘Design Boost’ club!
Further Information
There are a wide range of specialist books available to support your area of study in each classroom. The school library has a large selection of books linked to the areas of study at both KS3 and KS4/5. The department encourages independent thinking skills and personal creative responses and will always endeavour to support students in all of their creative pursuits in and out of school.
There is a Design Survival Kit available for sale in the school shop at a reasonable price to support you through your school years. The department has access to a wide range of facilities including laptops with Adobe design suite, new digital cameras, a large number of Bernina sewing machines, a digital laser cutter that can cut fabric to a specific design at industry standard and a sublimation printer and heat press that can be used to create bespoke fabric pattern design and print directly on to fabrics. Staff in the department are highly qualified in areas of Fine Art, Graphics and Ceramics bringing a wide range of expertise that helps to develop the design curriculum.
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