Level 3 Fashion Business and Retail Course in Chester. Classes run at Cheshire College South Chester Campus, full-time during the day. It's free for some learners and fees may apply for others. Typically, students need 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including a 4/3 combination in maths and English. This fashion business and retail qualification covers the commercial side of the fashion industry, from retail operations to business practice. The course runs to 468 hours of study.
Who this course is for
"Please enquire with the colleges Customer Services team to find out more about Fashion Business and Retail Extended Diploma - Level 3 - UAL suitability for learner types.
Entry requirements
"Typically you will need 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C), including a 4/3 (C/D) combination for maths and English."
What you will learn
You'll explore how fashion retail businesses operate, from buying to selling
You'll study fashion merchandising and how products are planned and presented
You'll develop an understanding of consumer behaviour and market trends
You'll learn how fashion brands build and manage their identity
You'll examine the supply chain and how fashion products move from design to shop floor
You'll analyse business performance using sales data and retail metrics
You'll build skills in visual merchandising and store layout
How you will learn
You'll study in the classroom full-time during the day. Learning is delivered through a mix of taught sessions, project work, and assignments. Assessment is coursework-based, with projects and written assignments that reflect real fashion business scenarios. There are no formal written exams. Your work is assessed against University of the Arts London standards throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Cheshire College South Chester Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Fashion retail buyer, selecting products for stores and online ranges
Merchandiser, planning stock levels and maximising sales
Visual merchandiser, creating in-store displays and window dressing
Retail manager, overseeing day-to-day store operations
Fashion marketing assistant, supporting brand campaigns and promotions
E-commerce coordinator, managing online product listings and sales
Wholesale account assistant, working between brands and retailers
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Fashion Business or Fashion Retail Management. A degree-level route that builds on this qualification and opens senior roles in buying, brand management, and retail leadership.
HNC or HND in Business. A broader business qualification that can complement fashion retail experience.
University of the Arts London degree programmes. UAL degrees in fashion-related subjects may recognise this Extended Diploma as a strong entry qualification.
