Year 13 Textiles and Design Technology (13TXD)

In this level 3 University Entrance NCEA course, students use textile materials in creative and innovative ways to develop their own original designs. Students are guided by a brief with specifications and an overarching theme for the year. Following the design process, students will use freehand and digital sketching to visually communicate their design ideas. They will experiment with applied design techniques and explore what they can do with a range of materials, testing to discover their properties and applications, they will trial a range of construction techniques to select the most appropriate for their outcome. Students will develop the skills and confidence to safely and skilfully use domestic and industrial machines to construct fit for purpose outcomes that address the requirements of a brief.

Students have the opportunity to showcase their outcomes in the annual Textiles exhibition show.

Textile materials are utilised in almost every industry, from high fashion catwalks to sailing the high seas, war zones to operating theatres. Textiles not only clothe and protect, they communicate and celebrate identities, enhance the performance and functionality of people, products and spaces. More importantly, textile materials enable life saving products to function. The practical skills and process of designing and constructing textile outcomes remains the same regardless of the outcome's end use, so whether it’s a ball dress, backpack or a bullet proof vest, students will gain an introduction to the foundational knowledge, skills and understanding required to develop textile outcomes.  

Learning in this course extends beyond the boundaries of a single subject. By drawing on the skills and knowledge acquired from various disciplines, students will be able to apply their learning in authentic project-based assignments. Through this interdisciplinary approach, they will not only deepen their understanding of technology but also enhance their proficiency in core subjects such as maths, English, and science.