Fashion is a vibrant and flourishing industry with a wide range of career opportunities. This course provides an opportunity for those with an interest in fashion to explore, develop and test their creativity within a qualification structure which is both stimulating and demanding.
This is an industry led, two-year course, equivalent to three A-levels, which will allow progression to University and or industry. You will be taught by, and working with, industry professionals from all aspects of the creative fashion retail industry to ensure that this course provides you with the skills you need for a career in Fashion Retail.
This course would be suitable for those who are inspired by the world of fashion and are serious about a career within the industry. You need to be a creative individual with a passion for every aspect of fashion. This course is ideal if you are looking for a practical, challenging and career-focused alternative to A levels.
Follow @fashionretailaylesbury on Facebook or @Fashionretailaylesbury on Instagram for updates and examples of current student work.
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What will I learn?
Using a combination of hands-on and theoretical learning, you will gain practical, technical and creative skills during this course, in our industry specific studios. You will have the opportunity to work on unique and exciting projects designed to expand and test your knowledge of the industry and market. These assignments will vary from Look Books, to magazines or promotional campaigns, also range plans and store layouts. Previous live projects have included creating boots designs and campaigns for Doc Martens and also fashion shows for the Florence Nightingale Hospice Trust. These exciting opportunities help to provide you with essential experience and a work ready attitude before you even step into your career.
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Example modules
- Fashion marketing: Sell a product, promotion, social media, advertising.
- Buying and Merchandising: Stock into store, choosing the product, making a profit.
- Visual merchandising: Stock Presentation, Window Display, Store layouts and design.
- The supply chain: Working with suppliers, Logistics and delivery
- Retail management: Management Principles, Team leadership and Customer Service
- Garment Technology: Fabrics and internals, fit and form, pattern construction.
- Digital: Indesign, Photoshop and Illustrator for Fashion Promotion.
- Store Design: Interiors and exteriors
- Sustainability: In product design and supply chain
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How will I be assessed?
The University of the Arts London (UAL) Level 3 Fashion, Business and Retail Diploma is assessed through a series of projects that are designed to broaden students skills, experience and expertise. The first 7 units are delivered with a Pass or Fail outcome. A final project (The FMP) decides the students overall grade for the year which is graded at: Pass, Merit or Distinction. The second year (Extended Diploma) is made up of 5 units, with the first 3 units delivered with a Pass or Fail outcome and the final 2 making up the FMP for year 2, with the overall grade being either a Pass, Merit or Distinction. Student work is externally assessed and scrutinised by External Verifiers from the University of the Arts London to ensure that academic standards are adhered maintained.
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Entry Requirements
To join this programme you will need 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 (or equivalent) including Maths and/or English.
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Progression & Career Opportunities
Successful completion of the two year level 3 extended course will allow you to progress onto University or an appropriate level 4 course. You could also go onto an entrance level position, or apprenticeship in your chosen fashion retail field. Working within an exciting and fast paced Fashion Retail career, as a Buyer, Merchandiser, Visual Merchandiser or Fashion promoter.
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Additional Information
A portfolio of creative work must be brought to interview.
A studio fee to pay for materials is required, a bursary is available to help with costs if required. We strive to support our student learning through termly trips, these will be charged per trip, bursary is available to support where needed.
Your course will be timetabled over 3 or 4 days, with approximately 6-12 hours work of directed homework per week depending on the level of course. Our days run from 9am to 4.45pm.
Your study programme include your vocational course and also Maths, English, Digital Skills, Tutorial and Career Progression sessions, attendance to all aspects is mandatory.
