We encourage girls to explore the fascinating world of textiles and soft materials. We believe we are shaping the creators of tomorrow by blending blending practical skills with design thinking, ensuring that every stitch tells a story.
Soft Materials Technology for Year 8 students at Saint Kentigern Girls’ School focuses on developing practical skills, knowledge, and the design process within the context of textiles and fabric-based projects.
Girls engage in hands-on activities where they learn to work with various materials like fabrics, threads, and embellishments. They acquire practical skills such as sewing, basic patternmaking, and fabric manipulation, while also deepening their understanding of material properties and textile technologies.
The design process is central to this subject, our girls are encouraged to think creatively and critically. They learn to identify needs, generate ideas, and develop their concepts into finished products. Throughout the course, our teachers provide personalised guidance, which enables our girls to plan, execute, and evaluate their own projects. This builds critical problem-solving skills, an appreciation for aesthetics and functionality in design and imparts the value of perseverance and attention to detail.
Our specialist building provides an inspiring environment where students have the equipment and the opportunity to bring their creations to life. We believe that teaching girls the art of sewing and fabric work is more than just imparting a skill—it’s about inspiring a passion, nurturing creativity, blending practical skills with design thinking and building a foundation for lifelong learning.
Beyond technical proficiency, our soft materials program emphasises the importance of sustainability and ethical practices in fashion and textiles. Students learn about the environmental impact of different fabrics and are encouraged to make mindful choices, such as using organic materials and minimising waste. They explore ways to repurpose and recycle fabrics, increasing awareness and a sense of responsibility in creatively addressing environmental challenges. This holistic approach ensures that our students are not only skilled artisans but also conscious consumers and ideators in the world of fashion and textiles.