Bolton’s heritage is inspiring a new chapter in education

For generations, textiles were at the heart of Bolton’s identity, shaping its economy and culture.

Now, that proud tradition is inspiring the next generation.

The Sixth Form Bolton is launching a new A -level in textiles, starting September 2026.

This course will give students the chance to explore design, creativity, and innovation while paying homage to the town’s rich industrial past.

By combining heritage with modern techniques, the Sixth Form aims to nurture future designers and creators who will carry Bolton’s story forward in the world of fashion, interiors and surface design.

The UK textiles industry is worth £9 billion to the economy, and this figure is expected to increase as employment in the sector continues to grow year on year.

The well established Expressive Arts department at The Sixth Form offers A-level art, graphic design, and photography, among others.

Among the students who left in September 2025 was Cami Wong, a former Westhoughton High School student, who achieved A* grades in A-level fine art and graphic design, alongside an A in sociology, and progressed to study Illustration with Animation at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Cami said: ““The teachers encouraged me to push my creativity further than I thought possible.”

Leah Kirkman, a former Smithills School student, progressed to the University of Salford to study Graphic Design.

Leah achieved a B in A-level graphic design and distinctions in Single Vocational Music and Performing Arts.

She said: “Being part of The Sixth Form’s creative community inspired me so much. The encouragement to experiment and take risks made all the difference in my growth as an artist.”

Staff at The Sixth Form are looking forward to the new addition to the curriculum, with Vice Principal – Curriculum, Quality and Students, Joanne Smith, stating: “We strongly value creative subjects here at the Sixth Form Bolton not only because of the exciting careers they lead to but also the way in which they encourage students to develop a wide range of skills such as self expression, critical thinking, creativity and adaptability. After receiving feedback from our local community and our stakeholder partners we have decided to add A-level Textiles to our already comprehensive creative and expressive arts offer to allow our students to explore what is becoming one of the fastest growing economic sectors in the UK and beyond.”

Debbie Wynne, Head of Art at The Sixth Form, added:”Introducing A-level Textiles is a natural and exciting step for our department. Creativity thrives when students are given the opportunity to explore new materials, processes and ideas, and this course will open doors to all of that and more. We are committed to nurturing young designers who are confident, ambitious and industry-ready, and we can’t wait to see the innovative work our future Textiles students will produce.”

Applications for September 2026 entry to The Sixth Form Bolton close on 30 January 2026.

Source – INDIA TV