AQA A-Level Design and Technology: Fashion and Textiles
Explore your course, one topic at a time.
Course overview
The AQA A-Level Design and Technology: Fashion and Textiles specification covers 24 topics with 487 learning objectives (7562). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.
- 24 topics
- 487 learning objectives
Course 7562
- 53
- topics
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Your exams
- Paper 1Monday, 24 May 2027, AM
- Paper 2Friday, 11 June 2027, AM
Always confirm dates and times with your exam centre.
Explore your topics
24 topics
Technical principles14 topics
Materials and their applications
Technical principles 3.1.1 Materials and their applications - Materials and applications7 specification points covering Students are expected to be able to name specific materials for a wide range of applications., They must also be able to…7 objectives- Technical principles 3.1.1 Materials and their applications - Classification of materials21 specification points covering Students must know the classifications of the following fibres, and be able to name examples that belong to each category:,…21 objectives
- Technical principles 3.1.1 Materials and their applications - Methods for investigating and testing materials7 specification points covering Students must understand how workshop and industrial tests are set up and what will be tested, measured and compared,…7 objectives
Performance characteristics of materials
Performance characteristics of materials Performance characteristics of fibres50 specification points covering Students should be able to name different types of fibres., Students should be able to describe the performance…50 objectives- Performance characteristics of materials Performance characteristics of fibres - Performance characteristics of yarns7 specification points covering Students should know that fibres need to be made into yarns before they can be manufactured into woven and knitted fabrics.,…7 objectives
- Performance characteristics of materials Performance characteristics of fibres - Performance characteristics of woven fabrics6 specification points covering Students should be able to explain the main fabric structures of woven fabrics and be able to recognise these structures and…6 objectives
- Performance characteristics of materials Performance characteristics of fibres - Performance characteristics of knitted fabrics3 specification points covering Students should be able to explain the two main structures of knitted fabrics and be able to recognise these structures and…3 objectives
- Performance characteristics of materials Performance characteristics of fibres - Performance characteristics of non-woven fabrics1 objective
- Performance characteristics of materials Performance characteristics of fibres - Smart materials6 specification points covering Students should know and understand the term smart material., The effects that can be created by a range of smart materials…6 objectives
- Performance characteristics of materials Performance characteristics of fibres - Technical textiles6 specification points covering Students should know and understand the term technical textiles., Students should be able to explain the suitability of…6 objectives
- Performance characteristics of materials Performance characteristics of fibres - Commercial names of fibres and fabrics7 specification points covering Students should be able to name and describe popular names of natural, man-made and synthetic fibres and fabrics,…7 objectives
- Performance characteristics of materials Performance characteristics of fibres - Performance characteristics of fabrics31 specification points covering Students should be able to explain the performance characteristics of fabrics, including:, strength, durability and related…31 objectives
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Designing and making principles10 topics
Design methods and processes
Designing and making principles 3.2.1 Design methods and processes10 specification points covering Iterative design process., Different approaches to user centred design., That in approaching a design challenge there is…10 objectives- Design theory19 specification points covering Design influences., How key historical design styles, design movements and influential designers that helped to shape…19 objectives
How technology and cultural changes can impact on the work of designers
How technology and cultural changes can impact on the work of designers - Socioeconomic influences10 specification points covering Socioeconomic influences have helped to shape product design and manufacture, including:, trends, street culture music and…10 objectives- How technology and cultural changes can impact on the work of designers - Major developments in technology6 specification points covering How major developments in technology are shaping product design and manufacture, including:, the introduction of regenerated…6 objectives
- How technology and cultural changes can impact on the work of designers - Product life cycle8 specification points covering The stages of the product life cycle, including:, design introduction, evolution and related ideas.8 objectives
- How technology and cultural changes can impact on the work of designers - Social, moral and ethical issues8 specification points covering The responsibilities of designers and manufacturers, including:, products are made using sustainable materials and ethical…8 objectives
- Design processes28 specification points covering The stages of a range of design processes in order to apply personal judgement and relevant criteria in the appraisal of…28 objectives
- Critical analysis and evaluation8 specification points covering Critical analysis and evaluation., Students should be aware of, and able to discuss, their own and commercial products…8 objectives
- Selecting appropriate tools, equipment and processes7 specification points covering Good and safe working practices, including:, the importance of using the correct tools and equipment for specific tasks, the…7 objectives
- Accuracy in design and manufacture4 specification points covering Measuring and marking out., The importance of accuracy in manufacturing, whatever the scale of production, including:, how…4 objectives
Responsible design
Responsible design Environmental issues4 specification points covering The importance of environmental issues in design and manufacture, including:, the responsibilities of designers and…4 objectives- Responsible design Environmental issues - Conservation of energy and resources7 specification points covering The concept of a circular economy, including:, how products are designed to conserve energy, materials and components, the…7 objectives
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About this course
About AQA A-Level Design and Technology: Fashion and Textiles
This AQA A-Level in Design and Technology: Fashion and Textiles immerses you in the creative, technical and commercial aspects of the fashion and textile industry. You will explore materials, manufacturing processes, design theory and the impact of fashion on society and the environment, developing a critical understanding of how products are designed, made and marketed.
The specification is structured into core technical principles, designing and making principles, and an independent design and make project. You will study topics such as fibre classification, fabric construction, pattern drafting, sustainability, and the work of influential designers, all while building a portfolio that demonstrates your practical skills and design thinking.
Assessment Structure
The AQA A-Level Design and Technology: Fashion and Textiles is assessed through two written exams and one non-exam assessment (NEA). Paper 1 (Technical Principles) is a 2.5-hour written exam worth 30% of the A-Level, and Paper 2 (Designing and Making Principles) is a 1.5-hour written exam worth 20%. The NEA, a substantial design and make project, accounts for the remaining 50% of the qualification. All components are marked out of a total of 400 marks (Paper 1: 120 marks, Paper 2: 80 marks, NEA: 200 marks).
Why Choose AQA?
- AQA offers a clear and well-structured specification that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, making it ideal for students who want to understand both the science and art of fashion and textiles.
- The NEA provides an opportunity to pursue an independent project of personal interest, allowing you to specialise in areas such as sustainable fashion, smart textiles, or historical costume, which can be advantageous for university applications.
- AQA's assessment is straightforward with two written papers and a single coursework component, reducing exam pressure and allowing you to showcase your skills over an extended period.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between AQA A-Level Design and Technology: Fashion and Textiles and other exam boards?
AQA's specification is known for its clear structure and emphasis on iterative design processes. Unlike some boards, AQA places a strong focus on the technical aspects of textiles, such as fibre science and manufacturing, alongside creative design. The NEA is also highly flexible, allowing you to choose a context that suits your interests, which can be a significant advantage when applying to university.
How much coursework is involved in AQA A-Level Fashion and Textiles?
The non-exam assessment (NEA) makes up 50% of the overall grade, so it is a substantial piece of work. You will need to complete a design portfolio and a final prototype, which typically takes around 80-100 hours of supervised time. It is essential to manage your time effectively throughout the second year to ensure you meet deadlines.
What topics are covered in the AQA A-Level Fashion and Textiles exams?
Paper 1 covers technical principles such as fibre classification, fabric construction, finishing processes, and manufacturing methods. Paper 2 focuses on designing and making principles, including design theory, the influence of historical and contemporary designers, and social, ethical and environmental issues. Both papers include a mix of short answer, extended response and design-based questions.
Do I need to have studied GCSE Design and Technology: Textiles to take this A-Level?
While it is not a strict requirement, most students will have studied a GCSE in Design and Technology or a related subject such as Art and Design: Textiles. The A-Level builds on foundational knowledge of materials and processes, so having that background is beneficial. If you are unsure, speak to your teacher about your suitability for the course.
What career paths can AQA A-Level Fashion and Textiles lead to?
This A-Level can lead to careers in fashion design, textile technology, costume design, fashion marketing, and product development. It also provides a strong foundation for university degrees in fashion design, textile science, or fashion business. The transferable skills in research, critical thinking and project management are valued in many industries.
Assessment and exam guidance
What Gets Top Grades
A*/Grade 9
Knowledge & Understanding
Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge
- Uses correct subject-specific terminology
- Shows detailed understanding of concepts
- Makes accurate connections between topics
- Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge
Application
Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts
- Selects relevant knowledge for the question
- Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
- Uses examples appropriately
- Shows awareness of context
Analysis & Evaluation
Develops sophisticated analytical arguments
- Constructs logical chains of reasoning
- Considers multiple perspectives
- Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
- Acknowledges limitations and nuances
Key Command Words
AQA
State
1 mark
Give a single fact or term
Identify
1 mark
Name, select, or recognise
Outline
2 marks
Set out main features briefly
Describe
2-4 marks
Give an account of what something is like or what happens
Explain
3-6 marks
Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains
Compare
2-4 marks
State similarities AND differences (both required)
Analyse
6-9 marks
Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains
Evaluate
6-12 marks
Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion
Assess
6-12 marks
Make judgments about importance with justification
Calculate
2-4 marks
Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units
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