Level 1 Fashion and Textiles Course in London. Classes run at Poplar Works, two days a week during the day, on Mondays and Tuesdays from 9:30 to 15:30. The course is free for many learners. A travel bursary is also available, and most equipment is supplied. Over 12 weeks, you'll build practical garment construction skills using industrial sewing techniques, and develop an understanding of how the fashion industry works. The course covers quality control and the construction of a top and skirt. You'll need Entry Level 3 in English to join.
Who this course is for
Poplar Works is a thriving community fashion hub in East London's Fashion District. A partnership between the London College of Fashion, UAL, Poplar HARCA and The Trampery, it brings together studios for fashion and creative business start-ups, a creative community engagement programme and the Making for Change training and manufacturing initiative. Making for Change initiative creates a space where fashion students, entrepreneurs, manufacturers and the local community can learn, share and create together; unlocking potential, nurturing talent and helping to write tomorrow's fashion success stories. The Level 1 course delivered at Poplar Works will help you to develop the practical and technical skills required by the fashion industries for construction roles within the industry, e.g. Sample Machinist. It will also develop your understanding of how fashion works and the employment opportunities within the sector, as well as your ability to work professionally.
Entry requirements
You will need:A strong desire to pursue a career in the fashion industry Minimum qualification of entry-level 3 in English
What you will learn
You'll use industrial sewing machines to construct garments to a professional standard.
You'll apply industrial sewing operations used in fashion manufacturing.
You'll carry out quality control checks on sewn products.
You'll construct a top and a skirt from start to finish.
You'll develop an understanding of employment roles within the fashion industry.
You'll build the professional working practices expected in a fashion workplace.
How you will learn
You'll learn through hands-on practical work in a studio setting. Classes are classroom based, running two days a week over 12 weeks. You'll be assessed on the garments you construct and the techniques you apply. Tutors will observe your practical work and assess your understanding of quality control and industry processes.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Poplar Works will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sample machinist. Sewing garment samples for fashion designers and manufacturers.
Garment machinist. Production sewing in clothing factories or studios.
Tailor or dressmaker. Making and altering garments for clients.
Clothing production assistant. Supporting the making of fashion collections.
Fashion studio assistant. Practical support role in a design or manufacturing studio.
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Fashion and Textiles. Builds on your practical skills and prepares you for more advanced construction and design work.
Level 2 NVQ in Sewing Machinist. A work-based qualification recognised by employers in garment manufacturing.
Level 3 Diploma in Fashion Design. For those who want to move into design alongside production skills.
