From Apprenticeships to Westminster: A Big Week for UK Fashion Manufacturing
11-02-2026
Newsletter 11th February 2026
NAW – 9th – 15th February: Why the Fashion and Manufacturing Sector Needs More Apprentices
As the UK marks National Apprenticeship Week (9th–15th February 2026), Fashion-Enter Ltd is proud to champion the vital role apprenticeships play in strengthening the future of British fashion and textiles manufacturing. At a time when the industry continues to report a shortage of employment-ready talent from pattern cutters and tailors to garment technologists and production specialists, high-quality, industry-led training has never been more important. As one of the leading providers of Advanced Apprenticeships at Levels 3, 4 and 5 in apparel manufacturing, FEL is committed to closing the skills gap and nurturing the next generation of technical experts.
UK Garment Manufacturing on the Political Agenda
(Image of Westminster by Selim Karadayi)
Tomorrow, 12th February 2026, national attention will turn to Westminster as Catherine West MP and Diarmaid Ward lead a 90-minute Backbenchers Debate on Onshoring in the Fashion and Textiles Industry. This landmark discussion places UK garment manufacturing firmly on the political agenda, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen domestic production and unlock greater public procurement opportunities for British SMEs. On the same day, Tamara Cincik’s Fashion Roundtable will host an Ethics and Sustainability in Fashion APPG EGM (Room W2, 14:30–15:00), ensuring responsible growth and transparency remain central to future policy decisions.
Complementing these parliamentary discussions, we are delighted to welcome Small Business Commissioner Emma Jones and colleagues to Leicester to meet local factories and SME leaders. With 5.7 million SMEs accounting for 99% of UK private sector businesses, delivering around 60% of employment and more than £2.7 trillion in turnover, their role in economic growth cannot be overstated. In Leicester, skilled workers are ready and factories need orders; with the right support, worklessness can be reduced quickly. Together, these three events mark a significant step forward towards the Made in the UK manufacturing agenda. More on this soon!
Support UK Businesses at Leicester Made and Regions this Spring
Leicester Made & Regions on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th April 2026 at The Venue@DMU for a dynamic two-day trade and consumer event celebrating the very best of Made in the UK manufacturing. Bringing together suppliers, brands, manufacturers, educators and industry leaders, the event shines a spotlight on innovation, skills development and ethical British production. Designed to connect the full supply chain with conscious consumers and forward-thinking retailers, Leicester Made & Regions continues to champion transparency, local sourcing and the strength of regional manufacturing across the UK.
To support exhibitors and visitors travelling to Leicester, a range of discounted hotel rates has been secured at centrally located venues including Novotel & Adagio Leicester, The Gresham Aparthotel and Holiday Inn Leicester. With strong demand anticipated, early booking is highly recommended to secure the best rates. To find out more tap here.
For event or exhibitor enquiries, please contact beth@fashion-enter.com
FEL on BBC Radio 4
On Monday we welcomed BBC Radio 4 to FEL HQ at Haringey for an exclusive interview with our CEO Jenny Holloway discussing the Backbenchers Debate on Onshoring in the Fashion and Textiles Industry. Due to air at 23:30 on Friday 13th February, and available on BBC Sounds thereafter.
ISAIC X BFC Supply Chain Exchange Workshop
FEL CEO Jenny Holloway will be joining an exclusive industry work session on 18th February at Squire Patton Boggs, 60 London Wall. Held under Chatham House Rules, the facilitated session will bring together carefully selected leaders for an open, solutions-focused dialogue addressing the real and pressing challenges within apparel. Designed as a forward-looking, collaborative forum, not a complaint space, the afternoon will move from reflection to practical next steps, ensuring participants leave with shared direction, renewed momentum and actionable outcomes for positive industry impact.
Walthamstow Job Fair 18th February
Next Wednesday 18th February members of the FEL team will be at the Walthamstow Job Fair to discuss career pathways, courses and options for those interested in the fashion sector.
Half Term Free Taster Workshop For 16-18-year-olds
To celebrate our free Level 3 fashion course, we are having a taster day for 16-18-year-olds during the half-term break. We will teach you how to sew and upcycle your own clothes, learn to thread and use various industrial machines, and get you started on making your own clothes.
If you are interested in fashion but unsure where to start this is the ideal opportunity. Join us Friday 20th February from 10am to 4pm at the FC Designer Workspace on Durham Road. Our friendly team will be available to guide you on the best path.
To attend this free session please register here.
February’s Free Online Masterclass
Our next 1-hour masterclass, What is Traceability in Fashion, on Thursday 19th February, will be led by Jenny Holloway, CEO of FEL, exploring why transparency is now essential for trust, credibility and brand growth. Drawing on 30+ years of ethical manufacturing experience, Jenny will break down how to map and communicate your supply chain with confidence, including a live introduction to Galaxius, a powerful tool for showcasing sourcing, production and sustainability in a clear, credible way.
To find out more and confirm your place please register here and a Zoom link will be sent to you closer to the date.
Latest From Leicester…
WEA Adult Learning Within Reach Joins Us at Phoenix House
We were delighted to welcome our new neighbours today, 11th February, as WEA: Adult Learning Within Reach officially opened their Learning Hub on the first floor of Phoenix House. Open Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, the hub provides a friendly, supportive space offering ESOL, digital skills and arts courses that promote confidence, connection and lifelong learning. A natural fit for the Fashion Hub, WEA is an ideal neighbour, strengthening community opportunity through education.
Skills Bootcamp Promotion
Last week, 5th February, Sanna Bux, FCFTA Administrator, attended the Belgrave Coffee Morning at Belgrave Community Centre, a monthly event organised by Zinthiya Trust. The event aims to raise awareness of the wide range of services available to local residents in Leicester, with a focus on health, wellbeing and access to personal advice and support.
During the event, Sanna promoted Leicester’s Skills Bootcamp Programme and the courses funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). She engaged with over 20 individuals, including local residents and job coaches, promoting the courses to reach a wider audience. Discussions focused on how the FCFTA’s programmes can support mental health and wellbeing, provide creative outlets, and develop employability skills.
Courses Workshops and Masterclasses
Roll-on courses:
Available at all campuses Islington, Haringey and Leicester.
Diploma in Fashion Design and Business
Drop-In Sewing:
19th February – After work drop in Sewing – FC Designer Workspace – £20 + eventbrite fee
Smocking:
21st February – Introduction to Smocking – FC Designer Workspace – £45 + eventbrite fee
Pattern Cutting:
9th March – Introduction to Pattern Making: Skirt and darted bodice block – FTA Haringey – £70 + eventbrite fee
Corset Making:
7th March – Saturday Introduction to Corset Making – FC Designer Workspace – £45 + eventbrite fee
Fashion Illustration:
14th February – 1-Day Fashion Illustration for Beginners Saturday Class – FC Designer Workspace – £45 + eventbrite fee
Repair & Upcycling:
24th February – Free Repair and Upcycling Drop-In – FC Designer Collective shop – free
Free Business Masterclass Online:
19th February – What is Traceability in Fashion – Free Online Masterclass 10am – 11am (register your place and a Zoom link will be emailed closer to the date)
For all course enquiries contact: education@fashion-enter.com or call 0208 809 3311
This Week on FashionCapital…
(Textile reuse by Buzigahill at Berlin Fashion Week)
Berlin Fashion Week AW26/27: Dark Minimalism, Reused Fabrics and Protective Layers Set The Tone
And Finally…ReFAB Studio and FEL Collab
ReFAB Studio and Fashion-Enter Ltd / FashionCapital have partnered to launch an inspiring 12-part upcycling workshop series at FC Designer Workspace in North London…and spaces are filling fast! Designed to empower local communities through circular design and practical skill-building, the free workshops give participants the opportunity to transform luxury reclaimed interior fabrics into beautiful lifestyle products while gaining hands-on sewing, product development and sustainable making skills. Rooted in a shared commitment to ethical production, green careers and inclusive education, this collaborative initiative champions creativity, wellbeing and climate-conscious design with all materials provided.
To find out more and book your place, view the full workshop listings here.
Until next time, have a great week.
From the Team at FashionCapital / Fashion-Enter Ltd
