Course Overview
Please note: you will make your selection of three A Levels once you have progressed into the application process.
This course is ideal for those wishing to enhance either textile practical skills and portfolio and appreciation of art.
You will develop a variety of skills across the practical disciplines and befit from the department’s specialist textiles studio and additional art facilities. The course work module builds upon these practical skills allowing you to refine your investigation into skills and practical disciplines you have greater affinity with.
This module provides the opportunity for self-direction and independence which is a vital development for the controlled test which commences in February of the second year of study.
We have extensive specialist art and design facilities. You will also participate in visits to local and national galleries to draw upon artist research and presentation methods. You will learn from specialist teachers, many of whom are practicing creative professional, in addition to visits from guest speakers and visiting professionals.
In your final year, you will exhibit our work in the End of Year arts show, which is open to the public.
Topics may include:
- Printing
- Dying
- Transfer of imagery
- Transfer of texture
- Traditional methods of joining
- Non-traditional methods of joining.
Assessment Methods
You will be assessed by practical portfolio which will include an in-depth written investigation and a controlled test.
Progression Options
Students wishing to pursue a career in art and design usually progress to the Art and Design Diploma in Foundation Studies before specialist practical arts degrees such as fashion advertising, journalism, photography, fashion and textile design, fashion illustration, furniture design, illustration, surface pattern design and theatre costume, and shoe, sportswear and lingerie design.
Former students have progressed to degrees in Advertising, Interior Design, Marketing, Media, Theatre and Education to universities of Bath Spa, Brighton, Central St Martins – University of the Arts London, Falmouth, Kingston, London College of Fashion, Manchester Metropolitan, Swansea, Westminster and Winchester.
It is also possible to access Apprenticeships in Arts and Events Management and Fashion. Recently students have secured Apprenticeships with a Somerset based bridal and dressmaking business and another with Mulberry.
Entry Requirements
You will need 5 GCSEs at grade 4-9, including GCSE Art or Textiles and English Language.
You will need to present a portfolio of your work at interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.