There are 13 apprenticeship standards available in England in fashion and textiles, covering a range of skill levels from Level 2 to Level 5. These apprenticeships provide structured training for careers in footwear manufacturing, sewing, textile production, garment making, leather craftsmanship and more. Several programmes have recently received funding increases, ensuring greater support for apprentices and employers.

Notably, the Level 5 Bespoke Cutter & Tailor apprenticeship now has a maximum funding band of £17,000, the highest among the standards.

These apprenticeships aim to preserve traditional craftsmanship while integrating modern industry practices, supporting the growth and sustainability of the UK’s fashion and textile sector. Find out what’s available in England here:

• Level 2 Footwear Manufacturer  – Date updated: 25/11/2024, Improved maximum funding band allocation to £8,000 
• Level 2 Sewing Machinist – Date updated: 02/11/2023, Improved maximum funding band allocation to £8,000 
• Level 2 Material Cutter – Date updated: 15/02/2023, maximum funding band allocation £5,000 
• Level 2 Textile Manufacturing Operative – Date updated: 23/10/2023, Improved maximum funding band allocation to £7,000  
• Level 2 Commercial Laundry Operative– Date updated: 24/10/2022, Improved maximum funding band allocation to £6,000 
• Level 2 Leather Craftsperson Date updated: 07/03/2023, maximum funding band allocation of £5,000  
• Level 3 Fashion & Textiles Pattern Cutter Date updated: 08/04/2022, maximum funding band allocation of £9,000 
• Level 3 Bespoke Saddler  Date updated: 07/03/2023, Improved maximum funding band allocation to £15,000  
• Level 3 Knitted Product Manufacturing Technician Date updated: 24/08/2020 maximum funding band allocation of £11,000 
• Level 3 Garment Maker Date updated: 07/11/2023 maximum funding band allocation of £10,000 
• Level 4 Textile Technical Specialist Date updated: 26/10/2023 maximum funding band allocation of £9,000  
• Level 4 Fashion and Textiles Product Technologist Date updated:  04/10/2018 maximum funding band allocation of £9,000 
• Level 5 Bespoke Cutter & Tailor Date updated: 18/10/2023, Improved maximum funding band allocation to £17,000 

National Apprenticeship Week #NAW2025