National Diploma (ND) Fashion And Textiles

Key facts

Two years, full-time, Level 3 course

This course equates to a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in the new Qualification Framework

Course overview

This programme is designed to develop your design and technical skills. This provides a basis for progression onto Higher Education, then possible employment within the Fashion and Textiles Industry. The course will encourage you to explore your creativity and ideas through the practice of research, drawing, design development and technical skills. Along with an understanding of colour, texture, pattern and form. You will develop an awareness of Fashion & Textiles as a three dimensional experience. The different course units are aimed at developing the skills and qualities necessary to handle demanding but very rewarding jobs.

What you can do after this course

Students can proceed into higher education to a BTEC Higher National Diploma or Degree course in textile design, fashion or related areas. Some may prefer to gain trainee status employment in fashion retail for example, trainee buyer or window display. Numerous employment options may be available in textiles (design, print or construction etc.) and fashion (design, pattern cutting, accessories etc.).

Entry requirements

• Five GCSEs at Grade C or above, including Art or Textiles and English
• First Diploma at merit plus 1 GCSE (Grade C or above) or Key Skills Level 2
• All applicants will be required to bring confirmation of their GCSE results or any other qualification results to an enrolment event before the start of this course
• For mature applicants - Direct admissions to programmes for applicants who have been out of full time education for more than two years will be considered based on previous learning or experience. Each application will be considered on individual merit. We recommend an interview with one of our Careers Advisers before submitting your application.
• All applicants will require an art and design portfolio, including observational drawings. This portfolio will be viewed by the course tutor at interview.
• Entry is subject to interview

What you will learn

The course consists of 18 units, including:

• Materials, techniques and processed
• Pattern cutting
• Garment construction
• Fashion presentation techniques
• Printed textiles
• Textile techniques
• Historical and contextual understanding

Skills developed throughout the course include:

• Work creatively with a wide range of media and improve drawing skills
• Techniques and processes relating to fashion and textile design
• Independant research study
• Presentation, organisational and time management skills

How you will learn

• Work in an art & design environment
• Have practical demonstrations and discussion
• Use specialist equipment and workshops
• Exhibit your own work
• Make textiles and garment pieces
• Visit galleries and exhibitions
• Use computer design packages

Expect also to

• Work independently
• Write essays, reports and projects
• Read text books, fashion and textile journals
• Integrate drawing and evaluation into all aspects of assignment work

How you will be assessed

The course is project based and assessed as you progress, then ending with a final major project exhibited at the end of year show held at Pembrokeshire College

Things you may need for this course

Sewing equipment including: fabrics, scissors, cottons, needles, pins, set square, tape measure, metre ruler, drawing and painting materials, sketch books, portfolio and plastic sleeves in year 2. Approx. cost of equipment for year one - £130 plus stationery cost approx. £30

Please note that equipment costs may be subject to change

Fees

Full time no course fees, a studio fee of £60 is payable at the start of each year

Fees valid to July 2010