This course is for creative and imaginative students move on toing from GCSE with an interest in careers in fashion and textile design. It will prepare you for entry level jobs and apprenticeships in creative occupations and when taken with other level 3 subjects, for entry to higher education. The course covers both practical and theoretical study. You'll work with a wide variety of fabrics, components and techniques such as printing, weaving, knitting, mixed media, digital applications, surface design, embroidery and pattern cutting, creating products in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional forms. You'll get an understanding of industrial and commercial practices within the area of design and manufacture and learn more about the performance characteristics of different materials. You'll explore fashion trends and cycles and get an insight into marketing, brand identity and how to communicate design ideas to clients, customers and manufacturers. You'll explore design styles and movements and look at the work of influential designers from Chanel to Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen. You'll look at the impact of technological change on the industry and the ways that social trends impact product design.