UKFT is looking for UK brands and retailers to help revise an apprenticeship for design studio and fashion communication assistants. The apprenticeship aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that the next generation of professionals is well-equipped to thrive in the dynamic fashion industry.

The Level 3 Fashion Studio Assistant apprenticeship was approved for delivery in 2019 but is in danger of being withdrawn due to low takeup. However employers such as Asos and JD Sports see value in this kind of work-based funded training and would like to revise the course content to ensure it better meets the needs of the sector. We would like to hear from other brands and retailers to join the employer trailblazer group. Please indicate your interest by emailing celia.thornley@ukft.org

The UK fashion industry is in constant flux, driven by rapid changes in technology, consumer preferences and global market dynamics. Apprenticeships, which combine practical experience with academic learning, can address some of these changes and offer a new way for people to enter the industry with the skills businesses need. However, for these programmes to be truly effective, they must be regularly updated to reflect the current realities and future needs of the industry.

Why we want to revise and update the apprenticeship

• Relevant skill development: By involving industry professionals in the design of the apprenticeship, we can ensure that the training focuses on the most relevant and up-to-date skills. This includes proficiency with the latest design software, an understanding of sustainable fashion practices, as well as expertise in digital marketing and social media strategies.
• Real-world experience: Apprenticeships offer students invaluable hands-on experience. By working directly with experienced professionals, apprentices gain insights that are simply not possible through classroom learning alone. This real-world experience is crucial in preparing them for the demands of the industry.
• Talent pipeline: For brands and retailers, participating in the development of apprenticeship programmes creates a direct pipeline of skilled talent. This can reduce recruitment costs and lead to better hiring outcomes, as employers are more familiar with the apprentices’ skills and capabilities.
• Innovation and fresh perspectives: Apprentices bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table. Their familiarity with new technologies and trends can invigorate design studios and marketing teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and creativity.
• Support diversity and inclusion: Ensuring that apprenticeship opportunities are accessible to a diverse range of candidates is vital for fostering an inclusive industry. Brands and retailers can play a role by implementing inclusive recruitment practices and supporting initiatives that promote diversity.

How brands and retailers can get involved

• Provide advice and guidance on content, policy and processes
• Attend trailblazer group meetings (approximately 15 hours of remote meetings over a six-month period)
• Provide feedback on drafted documents
• Support the final submission by providing a letter of support

For further detail on the FSA Apprenticeship go to: www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/fashion-studio-assistant-v1-0

For more information on the role of Employer Trailblazer groups follow the link: www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/developing-new-apprenticeships/trailblazer-group/

Celia Thornley, Head of Skills and Training at UKFT, said: “The fashion industry is undergoing a period of massive change, driven by rapid changes in technology, consumer preferences, and global market dynamics. There is a pressing need to ensure our apprenticeships are right for the industry. By revising the Level 3 Fashion Studio Assistant apprenticeship, we aim to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical skills, offering a pathway into fashion and textiles that isn’t solely dependent on unpaid internships or industry connections. We need the support of brands and retailers to create a robust, relevant, and inclusive programme that will equip the next generation of professionals with the skills they need to thrive.”

Kirsty Woollaston, Senior product manager for the creative and design route at the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE), said: “The revision of this standard would provide an opportunity for individuals earn while they learn, gaining valuable skills and knowledge tailored to a specific job role. This can be a hard to reach sector and the revision would open a pipeline of opportunity for those who want to work in the sector but need to be in paid employment. To make sure that the right knowledge and skills are developed, we need employers to commit to revising the standard, providing their technical expertise and insight to develop an innovative, inclusive,  industry respected apprenticeship that would ensure that, on completion apprentices are fully occupationally competent and ensuring the fashion and textiles sector thrives and grows.”

Want to get involved?

Get in touch: celia.thornley@ukft.org

Find out more about UKFT’s work to support the skills and training requirements of the UK fashion and textile industry here.