Leicester Fashion Hub Celebrates Learner and Apprentice Success With a Certificate Ceremony

On Monday 22nd June, Leicester’s Fashion Hub welcomed learners, apprentices and training staff for a special certificate ceremony celebrating the successful completion of a range of fashion and textile training programmes.

The event recognised the achievements of learners completing Level 1 and Level 2 Fashion and Textiles qualifications, participants from the Skills Bootcamp programme, and six apprentices from NEXT who have successfully completed the Level 4 Fashion & Textiles Product Technologist Apprenticeship.

Hosted by Simon Platts, who also presented certificates to the graduates, the ceremony provided an opportunity to celebrate the hard work, commitment and dedication demonstrated by learners throughout their training journeys. The six NEXT apprentices attended alongside their managers, making the occasion a proud moment for both the apprentices and their employer.

Lan Leeder, Head of Education at Leicester’s Fashion Hub and the Fashion Technology Academy (FTA), welcomed guests and congratulated all those who had completed their programmes.

“Congratulations to all the learners and apprentices involved, as we gathered today to celebrate their achievements and completion of the programme,” said Lan. “It was a fantastic day to recognise their hard work and dedication throughout the programme. We wish them all the best.”

The ceremony highlighted the growing importance of skills development within the UK fashion and textile sector, particularly at a time when the industry continues to face significant technical skills shortages. By providing practical, industry-focused training, Leicester’s Fashion Hub and the Fashion Technology Academy are helping to equip the next generation of talent with the knowledge and experience required to succeed in modern fashion manufacturing and product development.

Outstanding Achievement for NEXT Apprentices

The event included the celebration of six apprentices from NEXT who achieved outstanding results on the Level 4 Fashion & Textiles Product Technologist Apprenticeship.

Fashion-Enter Ltd (FEL) is proud to announce a remarkable 100% success rate, with all six apprentices successfully completing the programme and achieving Distinction – the highest possible overall grade.

The apprentices joined the programme in July 2024 and have spent the past 22 months developing specialist knowledge and technical expertise within garment technology, product development and quality assurance. Alongside their workplace learning, they participated in a wide range of enrichment activities, including seminars, workshops and industry-focused events organised by Fashion-Enter Ltd.

As part of the End Point Assessment process, apprentices were required to complete two rigorous assessment components: an online examination and a substantial written project supported by a professional presentation. The results reflected the apprentices’ commitment and hard work, with all six achieving excellent scores in the online assessment and many scoring above 80%.

Their final Distinction grades demonstrate not only technical competence but also the professionalism, analytical thinking and industry knowledge required of modern product technologists working within the fashion sector.

Commenting on the achievement, Lan Leeder said: “We go above and beyond to support our apprentices and ensure they understand what it takes to achieve a distinction. Congratulations to all the apprentices, and we wish them the best of luck at NEXT.”

Industry-Led Training with Real-World Experience

The success of the apprentices reflects the unique training model delivered by Fashion-Enter Ltd. Recently honoured with the King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainability, Fashion-Enter Ltd has established itself as one of the UK’s leading providers of fashion and textile training. The organisation is unique in operating within a live, ethical, audited garment factory that manufactures products for major high street retailers and fashion brands.

This environment allows learners and apprentices to gain valuable hands-on experience from the very beginning of their programmes, bridging the gap between education and industry. Working alongside experienced professionals, participants gain practical insight into manufacturing processes, garment construction, quality standards, sustainability practices and product development.

For employers, this approach ensures apprentices develop skills that are directly relevant to the workplace, enabling them to make meaningful contributions to their organisations throughout their training.

Supporting the Future of UK Fashion Manufacturing

For more than 15 years, Fashion-Enter Ltd has been at the forefront of apprenticeship delivery and workforce development within the fashion and textile industry.

The organisation has supported brands including Chanel, ASOS, Marks & Spencer, Mountain Warehouse, New Look and Lyle & Scott, helping businesses develop highly skilled teams capable of meeting the evolving demands of the fashion sector.

Programmes range from Level 2 Sewing Machinist apprenticeships through to advanced Level 4 Product Technologist qualifications, offering progression routes for individuals at every stage of their careers.

As the UK fashion industry continues to address technical skills shortages and strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities, apprenticeships are playing an increasingly important role. They provide businesses with access to tailored training, government funding opportunities, improved staff retention and a sustainable pipeline of future talent.

The success of the six NEXT apprentices demonstrates the significant value of investing in workforce development and highlights how partnerships between employers and specialist training providers can deliver exceptional outcomes for both individuals and businesses.

Celebrating Success and Looking Ahead

The certificate ceremony at Leicester’s Fashion Hub was not only a celebration of qualifications achieved but also a recognition of personal growth, professional development and future potential.

For the learners completing their Fashion and Textiles qualifications, Skills Bootcamp programmes and Workers Rights awards, the event marked the beginning of new opportunities within the industry.

Leicester Fashion Hub Operational Manager, Divya Kamath, commented: “We are delighted to celebrate the achievements of our Apprentice, Level 1, and Skills Bootcamp learners as they successfully complete their qualifications. It is always a proud and rewarding moment to recognise the dedication, hard work, and progress of our learners.

“Over the past eight months, 52 learners from the academy have successfully achieved their qualifications across a range of programmes, including the Skills Bootcamp Course, Level 1 Awards in Fashion and Textiles, and Level 1 Awards in Workers’ Rights and Labour Exploitation. These courses were funded by Leicester City Council, supporting learners in gaining valuable skills, knowledge, and confidence to progress in their chosen pathways.

“A significant achievement from this cohort is that eight learners have secured full-time employment within the fashion industry after completing their training. This demonstrates the positive impact of vocational education and the opportunities created through practical learning and industry-focused programmes.

“The combined awarding ceremony provided a wonderful opportunity for learners from different courses to come together, celebrate their success, and learn more about future progression routes. It also allowed our Level 1 learners to gain a clearer understanding of the pathways available to them, including further education, employment, and skills development opportunities.

“Thanks to Leicester City Council and all the partners for their support.”

As guests gathered to celebrate the achievements of the graduates, the event served as a reminder of the vital role that high-quality education, employer engagement and industry collaboration play in securing the future of UK fashion and textile manufacturing.

Businesses interested in developing talent through apprenticeships and industry-led training programmes are encouraged to contact Fashion-Enter Ltd and the Fashion Technology Academy to learn more about the opportunities available.

To discuss apprenticeship opportunities for your business, contact: training@fashion-enter.com