AIM

• Develop creative and imaginative ideas through the exploration of textile materials, techniques, and processes.

• Build skills in recording observations, ideas, and insights using drawing, photography, annotation and sampling.

• Learn to experiment with and refine textile techniques such as stitching, weaving, printing, dyeing, and fabric manipulation.

• Understand how to research and analyse the work of artists, designers, and cultures to inform personal textile outcomes.

• Gain confidence in selecting and using appropriate materials, tools, and processes to realise intentions.

• Produce personal, meaningful final textile outcomes which demonstrate creativity, technical skill, and thoughtful development. 

ASSESSMENT

The AQA GCSE Art & Design (Textiles) course is assessed through two practical components. Students complete a portfolio worth 60%, made up of coursework projects developed throughout the course that show research, experimentation, skill development, and a final outcome.

In year 11 students also complete an externally set assignment worth 40%, where they respond to a theme set by the exam board and produce a final piece during a supervised 10-hour exam period.

All assessment is practical, with no written exam, and work is marked against AQA assessment objectives and then moderated externally.

CONTENT

Year 10/11 - Component 1: Portfolio

Students complete two coursework projects that allow them to build skills and develop personal ideas over time. This includes the themed projects Under the Sea and Natural Forms, where students research artists and designers, explore textile techniques (including stitching, fabric manipulation, printing, and mixed media), and record ideas through drawing, photography, and sampling. These projects encourage creativity and experimentation while helping students understand how to develop an idea from the initial inspiration through to a final textile outcome. All work produced across these projects contributes to the final portfolio mark.

Year 11 (January - April) - Component 2: Externally Set Assignment 

Students choose one starting point from a selection of themes and spend several weeks preparing, researching, and experimenting in response. This preparation leads to a final outcome completed during a supervised 10-hour exam period. This component allows students to independently demonstrate skills, creativity and understanding they have developed throughout the course.

OTHER INFORMATION 

GCSE Art Textiles is an exciting and creative subject that allows students to express their ideas in practical, imaginative ways while developing valuable skills for the future. Students learn to work independently, problem-solve creatively, and build confidence through hands-on making, experimentation, and personal decision making. 

The course suits a wide range of learners, whether they enjoy art, fashion, design, or simply working with their hands, and it supports progression into A-Levels, creative courses, and careers within the creative industries. Most importantly, it encourages students to develop a strong personal voice while enjoying a highly engaging and practical GCSE experience.