About the course

A Sewing Machinist can be employed by a large, small or micro size sewn product manufacturing business. These businesses produce a wide range and variety of products from clothing and fashion items to leather goods, soft furnishing, knitwear, marine and medical textiles. The Sewing Machinists role is fundamental to the production process right across this diverse, multi sector industry. Depending on the product and company size, a Sewing Machinist may work alone or as part of team on one aspect within the sewing process or on various operations. The role may involve occupations such as lockstitching, blind hemming, overlocking, cover stitch, cup seaming or ruffling or linking. The key responsibility of a Sewing Machinist is to make sewn products that meet specifications and quality criteria, with particular emphasis on maintaining quality standards whilst working at the required efficiency rate and meeting targets and deadlines.

Entry Requirements

A minimum of two GCSEs at Grade 5 or above. Applicants must be hardworking, reliable and motivated. As part of the interview process, Apprentices will undertake an assessment in English, Mathematics and ICT. Applicants who do not meet the exact entry requirements but hold relevant industry experience are encouraged to apply. Applicants who do not meet the exact entry requirements may also be considered.

Modules

Modules cover all aspects of the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed for the role of a Sewing Machinist, including: Organisation and maintenance of an efficient workstation Operating specialist industrial sewing machines Adhering to health and safety rules and regulations Working with a variety of materials, threads and trimmings Using a variety of sewing production techniques and methods Producing sewn items that meet quality standards, targets and deadlines Interpreting and following instruction and technical specifications Monitoring and maintaining the work flow Routine machine maintenance

Assessment

Once the employer is satisfied that the apprentice is consistently working at, or above, the level set out in the sewing machinist occupational standard, the apprentice will complete an 'End Point Assessment' that includes a submission of portfolio evidence and an observation of tasks.

Careers & Progression

With experience you could work with a designer, or as a 'sample machinist', making up samples of products. You could also become a supervisor or move into staff training, quality control or pattern cutting. You could set up your own business or progress onto higher education.

Additional Details