Education Partner Network: Boosting employment outcomes in an evolving industry
25/01/2024
The UK fashion and textile industry is undergoing a transformative phase, marked by a shift towards a circular economy and the integration of cutting-edge technologies. In response to these changes, UKFT brought together its Education Partner network together with industry on 24 January 2024 at the University of Westminster to address the evolving employment landscape and enhance placement outcomes for people as they start out in careers.
The event brought together representatives from both universities and private training providers including University of the Creative Arts, University of Bolton, De Montford University, University of West England, Nottingham Trent University, Chelsea College of Art, London College of Fashion, Bath Spa, Manchester Fashion Institute, University of Westminster, HMP Prison Services, Glasgow Clyde College, Women Empowerment Project & Training (WEPT), Westminster Kingsway College, Key Training and Learning (KTL), Gower College Swansea and Winchester School of Art. Discover more abour UKFT’s Education Partner network here.
The primary objective of this gathering was to gain insights into the anticipated changes in industry recruitment over the upcoming period and to encourage collaboration between education and the fashion and textile sector to bolster employment outcomes. The comprehensive meeting agenda included a state-of-the-industry briefing for 2024, discussions on upcoming projects, partnerships, current trends, an industry panel and focused workshop sessions. There was also a chance to explore the Westminster Menswear Archive.
State of the industry briefing – 2024 in industry and politics
The meeting kicked off with a thorough overview of the current state of the fashion and textile industry, with an emphasis on political influences. UKFT’s CEO Adam Mansell delved into the challenges and opportunities posed by the evolving landscape, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the industry’s trajectory.
What’s on the horizon – Projects, partnerships and statistics
A forward-looking session highlighted upcoming projects, strategic partnerships, and key statistical insights. UKFT offered a summary of key findings from various recent reports and surveys, including “The Fashion and Textile Industry’s Footprint in the UK” by UKFT and Oxford Economics. Insights from UKFT’s recent findings on sustainable skills and circular transitions were also discussed, offering a comprehensive view of the industry’s current landscape. Attendees gained valuable foresight into the industry’s future, setting the stage for collaborative efforts to align educational offerings with industry demands.
Industry panel session: Aligning employment strategies for industry and education
Katie Greenyer, Creative Director at Pentland Brands, Emma Davidson, Managing Director at recruitment consultancy Denza and Natalie Mumford, Business Manager at Humphries Weaving and Responsibility Lead for Sudbury Silk Mills, gave real-life insight into what employers and the industry are looking for today and how this will develop in future. They shared perspectives on how education and industry can adapt and work together to meet these evolving requirements to ensure that well-equipped new entrants continue to enter the sector.
Workshop session: Making it happen
The Education Partner network provides an opportunity to work together to drive change. The workshop session offered an interactive platform to brainstorm and devise actionable plans to ensure we continue to deliver skilled new entrants into an evolving employment landscape. Attendees were divided into three groups:
Group 1: Research, Investment & Policy
- Exploring research opportunities to align education with industry needs
- Discussing potential investments to support this alignment
- Addressing policy considerations for a seamless transition in the employment landscape
Group 2: Interventions
- Identifying interventions to enhance the quality of education in line with industry requirements
- Formulating strategies to bridge existing gaps between education and industry practices
Group 3: Structural Issues/Barriers
- Analysing structural issues hindering effective collaboration
- Proposing solutions to overcome barriers and create a conducive environment for co-operation
John West, Director of Skills and Training at UKFT, said: “This was a really productive workshop where together we could set out a roadmap for proactive measures, ensuring the continuous delivery of skilled people into a rapidly evolving employment landscape. Bringing together such a wide range of academic institutions and training providers demonstrates a real commitment to driving positive change and preparing the workforce for the dynamic future of the fashion and textile industry.
Supporting Skills & Training
UKFT is committed to helping the UK fashion and textiles industry thrive by maintaining a future-facing image, a nimble and progressive education infrastructure and an engaging and forward-looking careers guidance system.
We help fashion and textile businesses to attract, train and retain the best.