Start: September 2026
Duration: 1 Year
Code: ASTEXD1LC

Course Overview

Throughout this course, you’ll explore a wide range of traditional and contemporary fashion and textile techniques. You’ll experiment with fashion design, garment construction, textile printing, surface embellishment, fashion illustration, and creative software, giving you the freedom to discover your personal style and develop your design voice.

You’ll study at our purpose-built Sixth Form at Loxton Campus, which offers industry-standard studios equipped with cutting tables, sewing machines, pattern-cutting tools, and textile printing facilities. This professional environment prepares you for higher study and careers within fashion and textiles. You’ll be taught by passionate, industry-experienced lecturers who will support your creative growth.

You’ll take part in guest lectures with fashion professionals, visit exhibitions and fashion companies, and join creative trips that offer valuable insight into the fast-moving world of fashion.

As part of our Career Excellence Hub, you’ll access exclusive opportunities such as employer-led projects, professional workshops, and work experience in both Year 1 and Year 2. Our team will help you secure a placement or arrange a week of college-based experiences linked to your career goals. Our Tutor Learning Mentors will help you develop study strategies, prepare for assessments, and plan your progression.

In Year 1, you will study towards an AS qualification before progressing to full A Level in Year 2. This structure offers flexibility – many learners choose four subjects in Year 1 before continuing three to full A Level. AS Levels also carry UCAS points.

You can also choose from pathways such as creative or media, helping you build additional skills related to your future ambitions.

What will I study?

You will explore:

  • Fashion design concepts and garment construction
  • Textile art, textile design, and fashion-focused creative processes
  • Fashion illustration and visual communication
  • Printing techniques such as shibori and screen printing
  • Surface embellishment and experimental textiles
  • Research, theory, and presentation skills to support your practical work
  • How to plan, develop, and refine an industry-ready design portfolio

Exciting Opportunities

As part of the Fashion and Textiles Career Excellence Hub, you’ll benefit from:

  • Work experience in both Year 1 and Year 2
  • Guest speakers and workshops from fashion professionals
  • Trips to exhibitions, galleries, and fashion companies
  • Employer-led briefs and practical industry challenges
  • Specialist support for university applications, portfolio development, and interviews

Where will I study?

You’ll study at Loxton Campus, home to our modern Sixth Form and specialist fashion and textiles facilities, including:

  • Professional fashion studios
  • Sewing machines and garment-construction tools
  • Pattern drafting equipment
  • Textile printing facilities
  • Digital design resources

This studio-style setting mirrors industry environments, helping you build confidence with professional tools and techniques.

How do AS and A Levels work?

You will normally study three or four A Levels over a two-year period. In Year 1, you’ll complete an AS qualification, which provides a solid foundation before progressing to full A Level study in Year 2 This structure gives you flexibility – you may take four subjects in Year 1 and continue three to full A Level. AS Levels also carry UCAS points to support university applications. You can find more information in our AS Level FAQs on the College website.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment takes place in Year 2 through:

  • Component 1: Personal Investigation (60%) – a practical and written portfolio
  • Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%) – a timed, creative exam project

What can I do after this course?

This course can lead to degree-level study and careers in areas such as:

  • Fashion design
  • Textile design
  • Garment technology
  • Costume design
  • Fashion illustration
  • Printed textiles
  • Fashion styling
  • Creative direction
  • Pattern cutting

You can also progress onto the Art and Design UAL Foundation Diploma (Pre-Degree) at Weston College or to Art and Design BA (Hons) degree at University Centre Weston.

Entry requirements

A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 9–4, including English and maths.

What do I do now?

Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page. From here you’ll be taken through to our application portal.

What to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next open event

Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.

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