The first cohort of learners to undertake the Production Sewing Machinist Skills Bootcamp has completed its training and is now ready to take its next steps into the fashion and textile industry. The Bootcamp was developed by UKFT with support from Salford City College Group, Greater Manchester employers and the Combined Authorities to meet the sector’s increased demand for production sewing machinists.

The Bootcamp was delivered both remotely and in person by Pendleton Sixth Form College, which is part of Salford City College Group. A fully equipped training room was created at Pendleton 6^th Form College, where the cohort learned how to use and control industrial machines for the in-person part of its training. The remote part of the Bootcamp gave the learners an understanding of the industry, quality standards, production targets, fabrics, manufacturing techniques and employability skills. 

Employers at the recruitment day (including English Fine Cottons, Wawwa Clothing and Slaters Menswear).

14 individuals completed the Production Sewing Machinist Bootcamp which includes 6 courses from UKFT’s online Production Sewing Machinist Programme:

• 1: The role of a Production Sewing Machinist
• 2: Industrial Sewing Machines
• 3: Industrial Sewing
• 4: Quality & Quantity
• 5: Fabric and Material
• 6: Employability and workplace procedures

Learners who complete the Bootcamp are guaranteed an interview with a local employer to help them take their first step into the sector. A Recruitment Day took place on the 21^st of March at Pendleton Six Form College, during which the recruits could meet potential employers. The learners made the following comments:

“It’s great to gain a skill that may lead to a job.”

 “I would now like to get a job in the sector, master my skills further and progress in the industry.”

“I have been considering becoming self-employed for some time. Now that I have the skills, I am going to go for it!” 

 

Formal interviews will follow at a later date, as each learner has been offered interviews with potential employers. Natalie Fletcher, who delivers the programme, said:

“Our learners are job ready, and keen to join the sector, with newfound specialist skills and knowledge, they will be an asset for any business who take them on.”  

Mark Compton, of Salford City College Group, commented on the success of this initiative and on the need for more learners. As the demand for skilled sewing machinists continues to grow, a second cohort is underway in the Greater Manchester area.

We invite training providers interested in delivering in other regions, employers looking to train new recruits and independent learners to get in touch for more information.

Email: Celia.thornley@ukft.org

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