On 7th October, Fashion-Enter Ltd (FEL) and the adjoining Fashion Technology Academy (FTA) in Haringey welcomed students from the University of Westminster for an immersive ‘Factory Uncovered’ seminar and factory tour.
The visit provided students with the opportunity to move beyond the classroom and gain first-hand insight into the realities of fashion manufacturing from garment production and factory technology to efficiency, sustainability, safety and the business considerations that underpin successful production. Led by FEL Director Caroline Ash, the session brought together students from a range of disciplines spanning fashion design, manufacturing and business. Working closely with the students’ tutor ahead of the visit enabled the seminar and factory tour to be tailored to their areas of study and provided a practical context for their academic learning.
For students preparing for careers across the fashion industry, seeing a manufacturing environment in operation can provide an important connection between the creative, technical and commercial sides of the sector. The factory tour offered students an opportunity to see the garment production process at close quarters and understand how different stages of manufacturing contribute to the finished product. Rather than viewing manufacturing as a separate stage that follows design, the visit demonstrated the interdependence between design decisions, production techniques, machinery, skills, quality control, efficiency and commercial considerations.
Students were able to observe different technologies and machinery in operation and gain a better understanding of the practical knowledge required to turn garments from concepts into physical products. This hands-on experience was particularly valuable for students studying across different disciplines, giving designers, manufacturers and business students the opportunity to consider the same production environment from different perspectives.
One of the themes highlighted by the students was the role of technology in contemporary manufacturing. The visit demonstrated how technological developments are becoming part of the modern factory environment, with students particularly interested in how AI and technology can support manufacturing efficiency across different stages of production.
For the next generation of fashion professionals, understanding these developments is increasingly important. Digital technologies and AI are creating new opportunities to improve processes, support decision-making and increase efficiency, while still requiring skilled people who understand the realities of production.
Caroline said: “We were delighted to host our regular visit from the University of Westminster this week. The cohort brought a fantastic mix of disciplines —spanning design, manufacturing, and business. Collaborating closely with their tutor on the content made for a seamless and engaging seminar, and the students brought incredible enthusiasm and insightful questions throughout. We are already looking forward to planning next year’s session!”
Feedback from the students included:
“I learnt how a factory in today’s world can implement efficiency, sustainability and safety regulations all at the same time. Thank you gained so much from the lesson!”
“I learnt how AI technology works with the manufacturer and about enhanced efficiency through all the steps. It was so impressive.”
“I have learnt about many new technological machines here. Also I saw the process of making many different kinds of garments. Fantastic visit!”
“I have gained practical understanding of the team environment for garment manufacturing. How a factory balances safety, product quality and production efficiency and with skill. Really informative factory visit. Thank you.”