Diploma in Fashion and Textiles

Admission Requirements

• Typical Age: 16+
• Entry Qualifications: Applicants should possess Level 2 qualifications, such as GCSEs, or relevant experience in a related field.
• International Qualifications: For international applicants, equivalent qualifications include:
  • High school diploma or other recognised pre-university qualifications (e.g., Grade 12 in Asia, Senior Certificate in Africa, EQF Level 4 in Europe, or a high school diploma in the US/Canada).
• English Proficiency (for non-native speakers): IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent.
• Additional Guidance: For assistance with qualification equivalency or language requirements, please contact our admissions office.

Structure of the Qualification

• Total Credits: 120 ECTS
• Modules: 6 mandatory units, worth between 14 and 30 credits each, providing a practical introduction to fashion and textiles.

Core Modules

1. Introduction to Fashion and Textiles Techniques and Processes (14 Credits): Introduces research methods, historical and contemporary influences, design briefs, and experimentation with materials and techniques.
2. Ideas Generation in Fashion and Textiles (16 Credits): Develops creative thinking, idea recording, response to feedback, and final illustration using traditional and digital methods.
3. Design and Innovation (20 Credits): Explores textile properties, print and digital techniques, and pattern drafting, cutting, and manipulation.
4. Fashion and Textiles Realisations (20 Credits): Covers turning designs into patterns and toiles, sourcing materials, and constructing and finishing garments safely.
5. Personal and Professional Development in the Apparel Industry (20 Credits): Develops portfolio skills, career and education research, personal promotion, and professional development planning.
6. Final Major Project (30 Credits): Brings together the skills from the course as learners propose, research, develop, and present their own creative project.

Explore the complete curriculum for this course to gain a detailed understanding of the topics covered, learning objectives, and key skills you'll develop. See the full curriculum below.

View Curriculum

Assessment and  Regulations 

Assessment Approach

Assessment is based on a portfolio of evidence, aligned with each unit’s learning outcomes. Assessments include:

• Portfolio of Evidence: A final written or digital design portfolio showing how the assessment criteria have been met, with photographs of final manufactured prototypes.
• Sketchbooks and Design Briefs: Records of research, experimentation, idea development, decision-making, health and safety considerations, and reflection.
• Projects and Practical Work: Toiles, samples, patterns, garments, a professional development plan, and a final major project with a critical essay.

Grading System

Grades are awarded as Pass or Fail, based on the successful completion of unit-specific assessment criteria.

Completion Requirements

Learners must pass all units by meeting all required learning outcomes and assessment criteria. All units are internally assessed by the centre and externally verified by Awarding Body.

Professional Development and Progression

Progress to Higher-Level Study:

• Continue to further study in fashion, textiles, or a related field.
• Potential consideration for advanced entry at UK universities with Awarding Body progression arrangements, depending on institution requirements.

Employment Opportunities:

This qualification prepares learners for entry-level fashion and textile roles, such as:

• Design Assistant
• Textile Assistant
• Pattern Cutting Assistant
• Sample Machinist

Work-Based Learning:

• Practical projects within each module develop industry-relevant skills. The professional development unit also explores work experience, internships, apprenticeships, and how to apply for jobs and placements.