Fashion and Textiles

The ability to be creative and think divergently is increasingly highly valued in 21st century careers and central to the ethos of the Visual Art Faculty at Caterham School.

We are excited and proud to offer this exciting Visual Art option at GCSE and A level which is increasingly a rare find at any school or college. We are striving to encourage our young creatives to be able play their part in this vital industry pursuing routes towards increased sustainability.

Our department has been recognized as a centre of excellence by Eduqas at GCSE level and A Level enabling students to access the highest of grades.

The progression of our students is important to the department, whether this be an art and design course, other HE course or employment. Many pupils from the Art department obtain their first choice Degree or Foundation course.

GCSE CURRICULUM

In the Fourth Year, and through the Fifth Year, pupils at Caterham are working more independently in Fashion and Textiles. A typical lesson will see each pupil working on his or her own particular project, with the teacher discussing work and ideas with them. Projects which involve a wide range of textiles processes including digital, will be happening in the studio at the same time. Pupils’ work is informed by their observed research as well as their critical studies of a range of textiles / fashion designers and cultures. It is our aim to develop the individual potential of all our students in Fashion and Textiles to the fullest extent, as well as to ensure our pupils’ enthusiasm for the field is nurtured and developed.

A LEVEL CURRICULUM

The fashion and Textiles A level enables students to deepen their skill level and breadth of understanding. The philosophy which is developed in GCSE is carried on through A Level, where students are initially introduced to some more advanced techniques, processes and skills. We offer life drawing classes to enhance students’ drawing confidence and skills in fashion drawing. We also offer many specialist lunchtime, after school and Saturday workshops. As they progress into A Level the students they are able to drive their own work, and their thinking is often at a profound level. They are the absolute owners of their work, the teacher’s role being as a sounding board and to focus critical discussion.

FACILITIES

The department is very well equipped with four specialist studios. Facilities include:

Textiles studio: sewing machines, sublimation printing and heat press, equipped for pattern cutting, felt and paper making, batik.
Fine Art and Printmaking studio: large etching press, two relief printing presses, easels, PCs, A3 colour printing, department library.
Photography and Film studio:  PCs fully equipped with the Adobe Suite, A3 colour printing, lighting and backdrop for photography.
Photographic darkroom with 6 b&w enlargers, lightbox, film & paper developing facilities.
Large format printer
Screenprinting facilities
Christine Walker Gallery

CO-CURRICULAR: BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Art Open Studios
Art Club ( junior)
Fashion and Textiles Club
Art Scholars Weekly mentoring
Photography Clubs ( Junior and senior)
Annual House Art competition and exhibition
Annual Photography competition and exhibition
Trips to support GCSE and A level courses to London Galleries and international residential Art study trips.