BTEC Edexcel Diploma in Fashion & Clothing

Entry qualifications
4 GCSEs Grade C or above, or equivalent plus portfolio of artwork.

Based at
Green Lane, Middlesbrough

Length of course
2 years

What you will do
· Aim to develop your personal qualities and attitudes across a wide range of assignments which focus on technical training and design realisation, which is essential for career development in the fashion industry
· Give you an introduction to all fashion related subjects. You will gain a clear understanding of the whole design process, from pattern cutting and garment production through to historical and contextual understanding, presentation techniques and portfolio building
· Develop your own style of illustration through observational drawing, and will also be taught a number of industry led computer software packages such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator
· Emphasis is placed on professional practice, working in an environment with industry standard equipment and with regular 'live' projects set by practising designers and professionals. Your two years of study will culminate in a Final Major Project which promotes your individual concepts and design and technical expertise
· You will be given the opportunity to participate in a wide range of educational visits to local and national museums and galleries; events such as Graduate Fashion Week and New Designers; as well as European residential trips which in the past, have included Paris, Antwerp and London

Assessment
All units will be internally assessed, with some units being verified through National Standard Sampling by the Awarding Body.

Additional studies
Key skills in:
· Communication
· Application of Number

The course is complemented with AS Textiles in the 1st year. This can be converted to A2 qualification in the 2nd year (subject to agreed criteria of achievement).

What can I do next?
This course will help prepare you for progression onto a Degree, Foundation Degree or BTEC HND programme, employment or self employment, depending on your chosen career goals. There are a variety of career opportunities relating to fashion including; designer of menswear, womenswear, or childrenswear, over a series of specialist markets including; bridalwear, sportswear, accessories, costume etc, pattern cutter/grader, visual merchandiser, stylists etc.

Successful completion of the course will enable students to take part in the College Compact arrangement to progress to higher level courses within the college.