EXAM BOARD: AQA

SPECIFICATION: 7204 (Art & Design – TEXTILES)

TITLE: AQA Advanced GCE in Art and design (Textile Design)

Why study Textiles at William Farr?

Studying Textiles at William Farr offers students the chance to explore both traditional and contemporary textile techniques while developing strong creative, analytical and practical skills. The course encourages independent thinking, experimentation and personal expression, supported by high-quality teaching and specialist resources. Students are guided through a rich creative process that blends practical making with critical understanding, helping them build confidence, technical ability and a strong portfolio for future study or employment.

What will you study?

Students will work with a wide range of textile media, processes and technologies. They will experiment with drawing, colour, materials and mixed media to generate, refine and communicate ideas. Throughout the course, students engage with textile design in contexts such as fashion, costume, digital textiles, print, dyeing, interiors and art textiles. They will research historical and contemporary artists and designers, exploring how textile work reflects social, cultural and ethical influences. Practical learning is supported by sketchbooks, journals or portfolio sheets that document development and critical reflection.

The course comprises two key components: a Personal Investigation, which includes an extended practical project and a written study, and an Externally Set Assignment culminating in a controlled assessment period.

Where can Textiles lead?

A Level Textiles develops highly transferable skills such as project management, communication, research, problem-solving and independent working. Students can progress into creative degrees and careers including fashion design, textile technology, illustration, interior design, costume, surface pattern design and various roles within the wider art, craft and design industries.