About the course

This advanced course will introduce you to the skills required for a career in fashion. The key areas of study include a dynamic variety of specialisms; this includes garment construction, pattern technology, fashion styling, fashion design, graphic communication, photography, drawing and image making, contextualisation, textiles and fashion visualisation. The course will allow you to explore a career in fashion ranging from fashion marketing, merchandising, buying, design, styling and photography to name a few. As part of the study programme you will be introduced to professional practice by working closely with guest speakers, industry experts and working on live briefs. This includes collaboration opportunities and a chance to build a sustained portfolio. There is an opportunity to further your education by studying at university via UCAS. Previous students have gone on to work as brand merchandisers, garment technologists, buyers, designers, stylists and creative re-touchers at brands such as Boohoo, Missguided, River Island, Next, M&S. The assessment for this course is internally assessed consisting of coursework and portfolios with practical outcomes. The final assessments will also include a fashion show which will showcase the product created during the course alongside the portfolio.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for the Level 3 course: 5 X GCSEs (Grade 5 or above; must include Art or Textiles) or BTEC Level 2; Merit/ Distinction profile. You should also submit a portfolio of evidence at the interview stage.

Modules

Year 1: Module A: Exploring and Developing Art & Design Skills. A1: Skills Development and A2: Creative Project. Year 2: Module B: Personal Progression. B1: Personal Progression and B2: Creative Industry Response

Assessment

The completion of an extensive portfolio showcases your skills and knowledge and will prepare you for progression. All assessment is holistic, based on portfolios of work produced in response to assignments. Five common assessment criteria are used to assess all work produced throughout the qualification. Reviews of work will be undertaken as an on-going process with formative assessment within set deadlines throughout the academic year. This will culminate in summative internal assessments (Pass. Merit, Distinction) on completion of the units. The final assessment in the second year of the Extended Diploma offers learners the option of producing additional evidence to demonstrate ability at Level 4 focused on critical reflection to aid transition to university or employment.

Careers & Progression

The skills developed through an education in art, fashion and design are integral to many roles within the diverse range of exciting and vibrant fashion industries. Some of the different careers our alumni students have recently progressed: Fashion textile designer: From £16,000 as a Junior designer. Seamstress or Seamster - £17,218, Assistant Stylist - £19,751, Photographer's Assistant - £20,697, Visual Merchandiser - £20,815, Junior buyer £23,819, and Garment Technologist - £31,000

Additional Details