MATSEC SEC Fashion and Textiles study plan

Classify natural and manufactured fibres by origin, generic name and key physical properties, writing a one-page comparison table from memory

Distinguish staple from filament yarns and explain how staple length and twist direction affect strength and handle

Identify plain, twill and satin weaves from written descriptions and sketch the interlacing diagram for each

Demonstrate taking and recording a full set of body measurements on a partner, noting ease allowances for a bodice block

Draft a basic bodice block to stated measurements and label grainline, centre front and seam allowances

Draft a skirt block and a sleeve block from measurements, checking that the sleeve cap ease matches the armhole length

Convert the bodice block into a simple dart manipulation (bust dart to shoulder and to waist) and record the method in notes

Explain how knitted structures differ from woven structures in stretch and recovery, with two garment examples each

Practise a fitting on a toile, identify three fit faults (for example drag lines, gaping neckline, tight armhole) and adjust the pattern accordingly

Calculate fabric quantity needed for a simple skirt taking into account fabric width, nap and pattern repeat

Construct a sample book of at least eight seams and seam finishes, including plain, French, flat-felled and overlocked, and evaluate each for fabric type

Sew and evaluate four hem finishes and three zip insertions (concealed, centred, lapped)

Apply interfacing correctly to a facing and explain the role of stay-stitching and understitching

Cut and make up a simple garment (skirt or top) from the drafted block, following a logical construction order written out in advance

Press as you sew and document the pressing steps used at each stage

Build a mood board and a written design brief for an original garment, stating target wearer, occasion and inspiration source

Produce a front and back fashion illustration of the design with a flat technical drawing showing seams, darts and fastenings

Annotate the technical drawing with construction notes, fabric choice and finishing details

Finalise the pattern for the designed garment, including any adaptation from the block, and make a calico toile

Fit the toile and record at least three changes carried into the final pattern

Cut the final garment in the chosen fabric, observing grainline, nap and pattern matching

Construct the garment in a planned sequence, applying at least three techniques from the sample book

Insert a fastening and attach a lining or facing appropriate to the design

Complete all finishing: hemming, pressing, thread trimming and a final quality check against the design brief

Photograph the finished garment on a form or person and label the construction details for the portfolio

Explain the purpose and effect of five fabric finishes, including mercerising, calendering, flame retardancy and easy-care resin finishing

Compare dyeing and printing methods and state which fibre classes suit reactive, acid and disperse dyes

Interpret a care label symbol set and justify the recommended wash temperature, bleach and iron settings for three named fabrics

Explain fibre content, country of origin and size labelling requirements and why they matter to the consumer

Test fabric behaviour on a sample: wash, shrink and press three swatches and record the results

Identify the correct tool for ten named tasks and state the safety rule for each, including rotary cutters, irons, pins and machine needles

List the main hazards in a sewing room and describe the control measure for each

Explain the environmental and social issues in fibre production, dyeing and garment manufacture, with one example per stage

Describe at least three sustainable design or business strategies, such as durability by design, zero-waste pattern cutting and take-back schemes

Evaluate a garment's lifecycle from fibre to disposal in a written paragraph of 150 to 200 words

Assemble the coursework portfolio in order: brief, research, design development, technical drawings, pattern, toile, final garment photographs and evaluation

Write a critical evaluation of the final garment covering fit, finish, fabric choice and what you would change

Complete two full timed practice papers under exam conditions and mark them against the mark scheme

Revise weak areas identified by the practice papers, producing a one-page summary sheet per weak domain

Rehearse explaining the portfolio orally in five minutes, as if presenting to an assessor