New fashion A-level to be launched

Students who have dreamed of working in the fashion industry can now get an early start as a new A-level entitled Design and Technology: Fashion and Textiles is set to launch for schools to teach from September 2017, onwards.

The new course will include the work and designs from influential designers, including the likes of Chanel, Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent and Alexander McQueen and the impact they have on the industry as a whole as part of its course work. The new, standalone A-level qualification from examination board AQA will replace the current Textiles course offering, which is part of the Product Design A-Level.

The course aims to cover historical design movements and styles from a wide range of eras such as Punk, Art Nouveau and Minimalism. In addition to studying design, students will also learn about the social economic influences on fashion, such as the rise of social media, the role of women in society and street culture.

Students who select the A-level will be learn how to create their own designs and patterns on a range of textiles as well as how to use new design technologies such as 3D printing and wearable technology. In addition to learning about the creative side of the industry, students will also learn about the commercial side of the industry, studying branding and marketing. Students will also be taught the importance of maths in the industry, and will be asked for example to calculate how much material is required for a certain design.

"The UK's thriving fashion industry makes a huge contribution to the economy. It employs hundreds of thousands of people and is one of our most sought-after exports," commented Ben Galvin, AQA Qualifications Developer in a statement. "It's important that we support the growth of this industry by developing young people with a solid understanding of the commercial, creative and technical sides of the trade."

"This new A-level will enable students to learn about some of the most influential and iconic designers and movements to demonstrate the history of the industry and its importance within our society."

Photo: Central Saint Martins students, Facebook