This course is aimed at those already working in the footwear industry; it has been designed in conjunction with the International School of Footwear at Leicester College and Skillfast-UK (Sector Skills Council for Apparel, Footwear and Textiles) to meet the demand for highly skilled people who understand the industry and who can apply this knowledge in their workplace; students learn about all aspects of footwear design and manufacture; in addition, students develop skills such as communication, numeracy and creativity; this is a work-based learning course; the teaching and learning methods include web-based interactive lessons and on-line discussions with other students and tutors; students have access to lecturers by email and telephone for tutorial support; the workplace is used as a learning environment on this programme and students are encouraged to apply their skills and knowledge at work.