New UAL Fashion Studio Assistant Qualification

The qualification has been developed in collaboration with the British Fashion Council and Creative Skillset and representatives from industry, universities, further education colleges and employers, and is the first of its kind. It provides students with the skills, knowledge and understanding needed to prepare them for employment and/or a support role in the workplace.

The qualification can be achieved at Level 3 or Level 4. The student, provider and employer should discuss the student’s ability and opportunities within the workplace to achieve the learning outcomes and meet the assessment criteria in the higher-level units before opting to undertake the qualification at Level 3 or Level 4.

On completion of these qualifications, students will achieve one of the three qualification-specific certificates:

· Level 3 or Level 4 Diploma for Fashion Studio Assistant (Product Development)

· Level 3 or Level 4 Diploma for Fashion Studio Assistant (Sales and Operations)

· Level 3 or Level 4 Diploma for Fashion Studio Assistant (Fashion Marketing and Communications)

The qualification is suitable for learners’ aged 18 and above. There are no specific entry requirements, although it may be beneficial if students have undertaken a Level 2 qualification in an appropriate related qualification.

The qualification may be delivered as part of the Fashion Studio Apprenticeship standard, or as a standalone qualification. It is expected that the majority of individuals enrolled on this qualification will be new to the industry. For those who already work within a fashion studio, this qualification can accredit their existing skills and knowledge while providing opportunities to develop these further. Through completion of this qualification, employers should recognise an individual’s ability to work to the recognised standard.

The qualification is not subject to any time constraints, but will normally be completed over a 12-18 month period.

Justine Head, Chief Examiner, UAL Awarding Body, comments:

“The new Fashion Studio Assistant qualification will provide the learner with the appropriate knowledge and practical skills to prepare for entry into the Fashion Industry. They will gain direct industry insight and training to set them onto a career path within specialist fashion sectors. The qualification offers learners the experience to engage in working environments and to prepare them for industry requirements. This is an exciting development for the UAL Awarding Body and our suite of qualifications.”

Sarah Atkinson, Head of Academic Standards, UAL Awarding Body added:

“I am delighted with the launch of the UAL Level 3 and 4 Diploma for Fashion Studio Assistant qualification, having worked in the fashion industry for many years prior to working in education I know how crucial it is for the British Fashion Industry to have a well trained and professional workforce, not just on the design side where we are world leaders, but in the whole fashion cycle – we need to be training the pattern cutters, fabric and garment technologists, quality controllers, buyers and merchandisers of the future and this new qualification will make sure that we are.”

To find out more about courses and apprenticeships with the Fashion Technology Academy click here

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