NCEA Level 3 Fashion Design Technology

Year 13 Fashion Design Technology is a course that focuses on fostering creativity and critical thinking in a project-based learning environment. The course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to design authentic and contemporary products in the ever-changing field of textiles. It serves as a broad introduction to developing students' thinking, design skills, and practical abilities within the specialised area of fashion.

Building upon the knowledge gained in Year 12 Fashion Design Technology, students utilise their prior learning to create outcomes that meet the requirements of NCEA Level 3 achievement standards in the context of fashion. The projects undertaken in this course cover various skills, including fashion design, garment construction, pattern adaptation, fashion illustration, outcome design, and development.

The course encourages students to push boundaries, think innovatively, and critically analyse their ideas. Access to state-of-the-art equipment, such as innovative design software, laser cutters, computer-guided embroidery machines, high-precision Cricut cutting machines, photo-sensitive multi-layered screen printing tools, and industrial-quality sewing machines, allows students to explore and utilise the latest technologies in their projects.

In this course, students will develop pattern-cutting skills and work with clients to construct garments or textile articles that meet specific requirements. They will also have the opportunity to pursue individual projects, collaborate with clients, and engage in the design process, which involves research, evaluation, and the utilisation of design techniques such as screen printing, embroidery, and beading to create visually appealing final outcomes. 

To enrich the learning experience, students have opportunities to showcase their creativity in both local and national competitions, as well as through immersive field trips. These include:

• Christchurch-based TOI Wearable Arts
• Auckland’s Walk the Line (part of NZ Fashion Week)
• Wellington’s HETTANZ Fashion Awards, where students mail their finished garments for judging
• iD Dunedin Fashion Show, held during iD Fashion Week at the iconic Dunedin Railway Station

Participation in the iD Dunedin Fashion Show is a potential school trip, depending on student numbers. idfashion.co.nz,

These events are designed to immerse students in the rich heritage of fashion and wearable arts, enabling them to learn directly from industry professionals, receive expert feedback, and gain confidence by presenting their own creations on prominent public platforms.

Students have the chance to select standards that they wish to work towards and that best suit their project and may have the chance to complete a Technology scholarship with their portfolio. Up to 16 credits are available from a selection of Achievement Standards that strongly support the achievement of NCEA subject endorsement at Merit or Excellence. Technology Scholarship Entry is in consultation with the teacher.

NCEA Level 3

By participating in Year 13 Fashion Design Technology, students gain valuable skills, engage in authentic projects and have career opportunities in all fields of clothing and related industries. For example, Apparel and Textile design, Interior design or in the Technology Industry through product development and project management.

Metropol magazine featuring ex-BHS student Judd Cargin is now designing menswear for the fashion label I Love Ugly.

*No prior experience required