The Results are Almost In…What Next?

Results days for A-Level (15th Aug) and GCSE (22nd Aug) students are rapidly approaching. For some, college and university places lie in the balance. For others however, what next might not be so clear. For those wanting to career in the fashion and textile industry we are pleased to say that university isn’t the only route. 

Here’s a list of options to consider…

+ Further education, college courses. At FEL’s educational arm, the Fashion Technology Academy (FTA), we offer further education courses in a broad range of subjects including; stitching, pattern cutting, tailoring, fashion design, business and more. 

The FTA has campuses in Haringey, Islington and Leicester, and offers courses that are not entry grade specific, tap here to find out more about FEL’s courses. The new academic year at the FTA starts 9th September 2024 and concessions are available.

+ An apprenticeship or traineeship. Earn while you learn with an apprenticeship. The FTA works with a wide range of fashion industry employers such as Margaret Howell, Mint Velvet, NEXT and Marks & Spencer where an apprentice is based with their employer 4-days a week and learning at the FTA 1-day a week. Most apprenticeships require Level 2 in English and Maths as a minimum. Tap here to find out more about FTA apprenticeships.

+ Join the workplace. Prepare your cover letter and CV, utilise websites such as LinkedIN and Fashion Workie, offering entry level jobs, internships and placements.

+ Stay on at Sixth form. Retake exams that you would like a better grade in.

+ Work experience or volunteering. Great for the CV, work experience or volunteering roles can show reliability, commitment, improve employability skills such as working in a team or learning a new discipline.

+ Start your own business idea. At the FTA we have courses that incorporate design with business with the aim of nurturing start-up brand ideas. This all-encompassing course prepares students to understand the different aspects of fashion, so they are business ready for either a career within the industry or to launch their own brand. For those that have a sound design concept and business plan the Fashion Studio at FEL’s Haringey HQ can support on sampling, printing and small scale production.

+ Job share. Today job roles are more flexible and it’s not unusual for individuals to have more than one job. It might mean getting a money job alongside developing a business idea, creative job or perhaps interning / volunteering.

Remember there are many pathways available from; working your way up, completing short courses, to apprenticeships and developing your own business ideas. We are here to help. 

If you’d like to start your journey with us email: education@fashion-enter.com for more specialised support. 

Image by Zen Chung – pexels.com