Apprenticeships are a key component of the growth agenda. The UK government is keen to ensure that a greater number of high quality apprenticeships are created to meet the needs of employers and apprentices, and help drive up growth and productivity across the economy.
Therefore a recent survey invited a broad range of employer groups to submit their proposals for their particular sector. In fashion production the amazing team behind the consultation included Celia Thornley, John West and David Neiper, along with our very own Jenny Holloway. The employer survey was very well received with encouraging results and clear support. Over 80 meaningful responses from across the sector and various regions were received.
The short survey took no more than ten minutes to complete and all the feedback ensured that any Standards taken forward for development will meet the training needs of relevant occupations, and that new apprenticeships are viable, high quality, and widely supported.
The new Sewn Product Apprenticeship Standards now includes:
Garment Tech
Pattern Cutting
Sewing Machinist
Jenny Holloway, CEO of FashionCapital & Fashion Enter Ltd comments: “Congratulations to the team of 17 companies that have been involved in the three new standards especially Celia and Sheila. These standards are exactly what industry requires today especially with the on-shoring of garment production back to the UK. The End Point Assessment now needs to be completed and good to hear that we have the expertise of John West here too! Think we deserve that glass of wine now ladies don’t you!”
The three new standards will be ready by March 2018 and marks a major achievement for the good of the UK manufacturing industry.