The next generation of fashion and textile talent took centre stage on Monday 22nd June as Leicester Fashion Hub hosted a special certificate ceremony to celebrate learners and apprentices who have successfully completed industry-focused training programmes.
The event brought together learners from the Level 1 and Level 2 Fashion and Textiles courses, Skills Bootcamp participants and six apprentices from NEXT who have completed the Level 4 Fashion & Textiles Product Technologist Apprenticeship. Hosted by Simon Platts, who presented certificates to all graduates, the ceremony recognised not only academic achievement but also the commitment, resilience and determination shown by each learner throughout their training journey. The six NEXT apprentices attended the event alongside their managers, creating an opportunity to celebrate the successful partnership between employer and training provider and the positive impact apprenticeships can have on career progression.
Lan Leeder, FEL Head of Education, congratulated the graduates and highlighted the significance of their achievements. “Congratulations to all the learners and apprentices involved, as we gathered today to celebrate their achievements and completion of the programme. It was a fantastic day to recognise their hard work and dedication throughout the programme. We wish them all the best.”
Building Skills for Industry
As the UK fashion and textile sector continues to face challenges around skills shortages and workforce development, training initiatives such as those delivered at Leicester Fashion Hub are becoming increasingly important. Through a combination of classroom learning, practical workshops and employer engagement, learners gain valuable industry knowledge while developing the technical and professional skills required to secure employment and progress within the sector. The certificate ceremony showcased the wide range of opportunities available through vocational training, from entry-level qualifications and Skills Bootcamps through to higher-level apprenticeships that support career development within major fashion businesses.
Leicester Fashion Hub Operational Manager, Divya Kamath, added: “We are delighted to celebrate the achievements of our Apprentice, Level 1, and Skills Bootcamp learners as they successfully complete their qualifications. It is always a proud and rewarding moment to recognise the dedication, hard work, and progress of our learners.
“Over the past eight months, 52 learners from the academy have successfully achieved their qualifications across a range of programmes, including the Skills Bootcamp Course, Level 1 Awards in Fashion and Textiles, and Level 1 Awards in Workers’ Rights and Labour Exploitation. These courses were funded by Leicester City Council, supporting learners in gaining valuable skills, knowledge, and confidence to progress in their chosen pathways.
“A significant achievement from this cohort is that eight learners have secured full-time employment within the fashion industry after completing their training. This demonstrates the positive impact of vocational education and the opportunities created through practical learning and industry-focused programmes.
“The combined awarding ceremony provided a wonderful opportunity for learners from different courses to come together, celebrate their success, and learn more about future progression routes. It also allowed our Level 1 learners to gain a clearer understanding of the pathways available to them, including further education, employment and skills development opportunities.
“Thanks to Leicester City Council and all the partners for their support.”
Six NEXT Apprentices Achieve Distinction
Six NEXT apprentices completed the Level 4 Fashion & Textiles Product Technologist Apprenticeship and the FTA is delighted to report a 100% achievement rate, with every apprentice successfully completing the programme and achieving an overall Distinction — the highest grade available.
The apprentices began their journey in July 2024 and have spent the past 22 months developing advanced technical knowledge across garment technology, product development, fit, quality assurance and commercial product performance.
Alongside their workplace responsibilities, the apprentices participated in a variety of additional learning opportunities organised by the FTA, including specialist workshops, industry seminars and technical development sessions designed to broaden their understanding of the fashion supply chain.
To complete the apprenticeship, learners undertook an End Point Assessment consisting of an online examination and a substantial written project supported by a professional presentation. The results reflected the high standards achieved throughout the programme, with all six apprentices performing exceptionally well and many recording scores above 80% in their online assessments. Their Distinction grades demonstrate the strong technical capability and professional competence required by today’s fashion product technologists.
A key factor behind the success of learners and apprentices is the unique training model offered by Fashion-Enter Ltd and the Fashion Technology Academy. Recently honoured with the King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainability, Fashion-Enter Ltd combines education with real-world manufacturing experience through its ethical, audited production facilities. Unlike traditional learning environments, apprentices and learners are able to experience the realities of modern garment production first-hand, gaining exposure to commercial manufacturing processes, quality standards, sustainability practices and product development activities from the outset. This practical approach helps learners develop industry-ready skills while giving employers confidence that apprentices can contribute effectively within the workplace.
A Day of Achievement and Inspiration
The certificate ceremony at Leicester Fashion Hub was a celebration of much more than qualifications. It recognised ambition, perseverance and the value of investing in people. For many learners, the event marked the start of their careers in fashion and textiles. As the industry continues to evolve, developing skilled talent remains essential to ensuring a strong and sustainable future for UK fashion manufacturing. The achievements celebrated in Leicester demonstrate exactly what can be achieved when employers, educators and learners work together.
For businesses interested in apprenticeship programmes and workforce development opportunities, contact the FTA / Fashion-Enter at training@fashion-enter.com