Textiles at The Bridge

Aims and objectives

Throughout their time at the Bridge, all students study Textiles. The aims of this course are as follows:

• To help students to develop a basic understanding of fabrics and their properties
• To allow students to develop hand sewing and sewing machine skills
• To help students to develop and understand how to use tools and equipment safely
• Students will learn and understand how the fabric is constructed
• To help students build and apply a repertoire of knowledge, understanding and skills to make good quality products for themselves
• To allow students to analyse, evaluate and test their ideas, products and the work of others
• Students will consolidate their literacy and numeracy skills by working within Textiles
• Develop the skills and techniques required to embellish fabric
• Develop consumer awareness relating to textile products and the environment
• Develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to produce original products

Teaching and learning styles

A variety of teaching and learning styles are used to deliver this course. Emphasis is put on encouraging students to work independently when designing, planning and preparing their fabric for the project. Teamwork is also an important part of the production of textile items. Students will support each other with hand sewing and the use of the sewing machine. Students are supported throughout the course, particularly with the production side. The aim is to promote confidence and independence whilst giving students the opportunity to utilise these skills at home. Teacher demonstrations take place where appropriate to model correct techniques to students.

Textiles planning

Students come to The Bridge at different entry points and with mixed prior experience of learning in Textiles so curriculum planning in Textiles requires a flexible approach. The KS3 Textiles curriculum builds a skills base which can lead to progressing these skills at KS4. There are a number of cross-curricular links:
Maths – developing numeracy skills through practical work.
English – developing literacy skills through the introduction of a new language and testing through spelling tests.
Art – use of colour to enhance the appearance of a textile product.
Science – environmental impact of the textiles and clothing industry.
PSHE – Unique Me – students design their own fabric
ICT – Using the PowerPoint app and creating a presentation

Modules completed across the course include –

KS3 modules:
Introduction to Textiles
Safety in Textiles
Basic Machine Sewing Skills
Juggling Bags
Pencil Case Project

KS4 modules:
Hand Sewing Skills
Embroidery Skills
Tie Dye
Cushion Project
Recycling Project
Tote Bag Project

Teaching Textiles to students with special needs

Depending on timetables, some students are offered the opportunity to study Textiles, regardless of their ability. We provide learning opportunities matched to the individual needs of each student, including those who are more able or have learning difficulties. When planning and delivering Textiles lessons and providing feedback to students, any EHCP (Educational, Health and Care Plan) IEP (Individual Educational Plan) and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) are taken into account.

Resources
All fabrics and materials for practical Textile lessons are provided to the students free of charge. The Bridge has access to sewing machines and ICT facilities.

Assessment and recording

A variety of approaches to the assessment of individual achievement is used in Textiles. After introducing a topic, the theory will be taught through a variety of activities with a large practical element. Verbal feedback is given after every practical lesson to enable students to identify what was successful and what could be improved. Every student keeps a file of work undertaken for each module, including photographic evidence of their practical work.

Monitoring and review

Maria Jackson (Head of School) is responsible for monitoring the standard of student work and the quality of teaching. Raj Narwal is responsible for the development and delivery of the Textiles curriculum. The development of the Textiles curriculum is reviewed annually by the Head of School and professional development needs are identified.