The UK fashion and textile industry is one of the largest sectors in the country and its influence extends around the world. The sector supports 1.3 million jobs, which equates to 1 in every 25 jobs in the UK.
Taught by experienced professionals this exciting programme of study offers you a multi-disciplinary pathway into the fashion industry. This course combines design development together with technical and practical skills to give students a wide range of options within the fashion industry whether you want to be a fashion designer, costumer designer, maker, stylist or aspire to start your own business.
Students take part in live, industry led projects such as the Royal Opera House Design Challenge which enhances their costume design skills and allows them to work to an industry led criteria.
Students participate in a range of work placements at various companies as well as making their own creations for the HRC Creative Enterprise Pop Up shop, allowing students to hand produce and sell items direct to the public.
Our students said;
"The course really prepared me for university and I learnt skills I can take forward into my fashion career."
"I made the right choice in choosing fashion at college rather than A'levels @ school."
"I feel so much closer to my ambition to be a famous fashion designer; the fashion director at my placement said I was really talented with a great portfolio."
"Doing this course has given me the confidence and skills to pursue my dream job of working as a fashion stylist."
Career Destinations
- Fashion, Textile or Costume Designer
- Tailoring
- Garment Technologist
- Buyer
- Merchandiser
- Fashion Marketing
- Styling and Promotion
- Fashion Forecasting
What can I do next?
After successfully completing a UAL Level 3 Diploma in Art & Design
(Fashion & Textiles) you can progress to a second and final year of specialist study with a UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design (Fashion & Textiles). Students develop a specialist portfolio of work and employability skills for direct progression to Higher Education or employment
What will I be doing?
You will;
- Gain skills in fashion design, pattern cutting and garment production
- Investigate visual studies incorporating fashion illustration and Computer Aided Design
- Study textile design, production, fashion crafts and sustainability in fashion
- Improve your awareness of the global history of fashion
- Learn how to style, present and promote your own designs in a professional environment
- Develop appropriate skills/qualifications in English, maths and software applications
Added Extras
- Enrichment programme of visits may include The Alexander McQueen exhibition space, the Fashion & Textile Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum
- Fabric sourcing and shop reporting in London's West End
- Work experience opportunities in the fashion industry such as Ted Baker, Young Vic Theatre, F&F Clothing (Tesco) and with independent fashion and bridal boutiques
- Produce a collection for a professional fashion show held at a local venue
- Develop a portfolio of work for direct progression to higher education degree or employment
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is continuous throughout the programme culminating in an end of year exhibition and show.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C, one of which must be English, or a Level 2 Art and Design Diploma at merit grade and English GCSE grade 4/C.
Applicants are asked to provide examples of art and design work at interview.
What do I need to bring?
You will be required to purchase a course kit at approximately £180, a kit list will be provided with everything you need for the first term at college but you should expect to replace paints, sketchbooks and some materials as you progress on the course. £90 is payable on enrolment as a contribution towards the cost of study trips and additional specialist materials.
Students at HRC who meet the eligibility criteria can apply to the Bursary Fund for support towards essential kit, visit and material costs. Please note - bursary funding is not guaranteed and is subject to availability at the time of application. For further information contact the Information Centre on 01992 411411 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Fee Information
Free to Home students under 19 on 31st August 2023.
If you are a Home student aged 19 or over on the 31st August 2023, you may be liable to pay approximately £2,500 tuition fee for a Level 2 qualification and approximately £5,000 for a Level 3 qualification (these were the tuition fees for 2022/2023 and could be subject to change for 2023/2024).
If you are aged 19-23 you may also be entitled to free tuition if the course you choose is on a government-approved list and the qualification is your first full Level 2 or Level 3 qualification.
If you are aged over 24 and you have not achieved a full Level 3 qualification you may be entitled to free tuition if the qualification is listed on the Government Free courses for jobs list. Similarly, if you already hold a Level 3 qualification (or above) and meet the Adult Education Budgets definition of unemployed or are in receipt of low wage, you may also be entitled to free tuition.
You may also be required to pay an administration fee, exam fees, kit fee and an Awarding Body Registration fee if applicable.
These fees are indicative of the 2024-25 costs and may be subject to change
