Course may be subject to change.
The Level 3 Fashion, Textile, and Surface Design course is a dynamic and practical programme that provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the fashion and textile industries. Ideal for those passionate about fashion, fabric manipulation, surface pattern design, and garment creation, the course prepares students for further education or a career in these creative fields.
Course Structure The course combines hands-on workshops, individual and group projects, and theoretical learning, ensuring students gain both practical skills and creative insight. Workshops focus on core areas of design, helping students develop their personal design style while refining their technical abilities such as - Textile Manipulation & Fabric Techniques Surface Pattern Design Pattern Cutting Sewing & Garment Construction Fashion Illustration
Throughout the course, students will work on a range of projects, both individually and as part of a team. Projects include designing fashion collections, creating textiles for fashion and developing sustainable design concepts by using eco-friendly materials and practices.
Trips & Enrichment Activities To enrich the student experience and provide real-world industry exposure, the course includes various trips and enrichment activities such as Museum and Gallery visits local, national and abroad, Fashion Shows, Guest Speakers and Workshops.
Assessment & Portfolio Development Students will be assessed through a mix of practical projects, written reports, presentations, and a final portfolio. This portfolio, showcasing the student’s creative journey, will be essential for future applications to higher education or the fashion industry.
The Level 3 Fashion, Textile, and Surface Design course equips students with the creative and technical skills needed to excel in the fashion and textile industries, providing an enriching, hands-on educational experience.
Entry Criteria
You will hold a minimum of four GCSEs at grades 4 (or above). This will include maths and English, as well as an art & design and/or design & technology qualification.
Additional Costs
You will be asked to make a contribution of £30 at the beginning of the academic year to help cover equipment, resources, trips and visits.
What are the next steps?
You will meet with one of the course team who will discuss the course in detail with you and answer any queries you may have to ensure this is the right course for you; please bring a current portfolio of your creative art and design work to discuss.
Times of Delivery
You will be timetabled for taught lectures, workshops and course related activities for 2.5 days per week, we will aim to condense these days to allow you to have the flexibility for external commitments. However, it is expected that you complete any tasks set at tome outside of timetabled hours.
Any times indicated are based on current courses and may be subject to change in future years. Full timetables will be confirmed at the start of each course.
Teaching and Assessment
You will be fully supported throughout the programme. Teaching and assessment will consist of practical work, creative workshops, studio practice, live projects, research skills, personal development , lectures and trips/visits.
You will be assessed through completion of a portfolio, presentations, team work activities, tutorials and written assignments.
Industry Links
Your tutors will have first-hand experience of the industry and will continue to build links with other industry professionals. We already hold strong links which will be introduced to you throughout the duration of the course for live briefs, guest speakers and placements.
Placement
We work collaboratively with industry and have a dedicated Work Experience team who will support you to find work experience opportunities and placements. We will also support you to source your own placements.
Placement opportunities and live client briefs will provide you with an insight into how the industry operates and how your skills will be applied in the world of work.
You could progress to FdA Visual Arts or Design degree at New College Durham or a relevant degree at university. You could also choose to secure a job in the industry, go freelance or apply for a Higher Level Apprenticeship.
