Students will experience a wide range of working methods and will also learn how to design and produce creative and commercially viable products. Dealing with all the essential skills required to be confident creative designers, this programme will prepare them to practice in a personally selected area of the textile and fashion industry. In year 1: they will be introduced to the basic technical and creative skills required to function effectively in the industry. It is anticipated that learners will be entering the programme from a range of backgrounds and abilities. First year modules allow them to align their skill base. They will be encouraged to undertake every practical task with reference to industry practice. Areas of study: pattern drafting and construction techniques; visual research for textiles/fashion; materials manipulation and application; techniques and processes in textiles; detailed design exploration and application. In year 2: featuring a strong industry focus, each module will introduce them to aspects of professional practice within the industry. The programme is supported by a range of visiting lecturers who work within the fashion / textile industry. Opportunities to explore and define potential career pathways are provided in the module researching and designing a collection. Year 2 is also focused on personal development and work placement. You will work on self-initiated projects within a defined brief. Areas of study: live external industrial placement; professional studies in textiles/ fashion; self initiated study; fashion textiles; a cultural context; research and design a collection (with personal marketing strategy).