FRA BUSINESS BROCHURE 2024/25

FUTURE-PROOFING THE

RETAIL WORKFORCE

BUSINESS.FASHIONRETAILACADEMY.AC.UK

MISSION STATEMENT

THE FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY WORKS TOGETHER WITH INDUSTRY TO PROVIDE MARKET-LEADING TRAINING, WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND SKILLED GRADUATES TO SECURE THE FUTURE OF RETAIL TALENT We are the specialist training provider for fashion and retail, empowering brands like yours to upskill your existing workforce by providing expert-led, sector-specific training and development programmes, and producing thousands of job-ready graduates.

Our commitment to excellence ensures that our partners nurture a workforce of talented and skilled individuals, who are equipped to succeed in today’s and tomorrow’s competitive market.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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At the Fashion Retail Academy, we’ve been providing job-ready graduates for fashion and retail for over 17 years, educating more than 13,000 students in business-critical skills. Within the industry, our reputation precedes us: you can find our alumni working at the head offices of virtually every major fashion brand in the UK. FRA students are in high demand thanks to our unique blend of vocational and academic learning that sees over 1,000 high-calibre graduates successfully enter the workplace each year. But more than that, it’s our collaborative relationship with our industry that ensures we continue to deliver the skills and talent you need now and in the future.

Our industry partners rely on us for cutting-edge training and development for their existing staff, as well as attracting new staff through apprenticeship programmes and our careers service. We are proud to work with over 140 brands to provide valuable industry experience for our students, from work placements and mentoring, to masterclasses and real-world challenges.

We look forward to working with you.”

LEE LUCAS, PRINCIPAL & CEO, FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY 4

CONTENTS

STUDY & TRAINING AREAS

06

PLACEMENTS AND PROJECTS

07

APPRENTICESHIPS

19

In-Store Retail Customer Service & Admin Fashion Design Digital & Supply Chain Buying & Merchandising Leadership & Management

23 28 31 33 38 40

TALENT DEVELOPMENT

45

ACCESS GRADUATE TALENT

51

ELECTRA HOUSE

57

GLOSSARY

61

FASHION & RETAIL AWARDS

64

MEET THE TEAM

65

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STUDYING AND TRAINING AREAS

The Fashion Retail Academy is the UK’s only industry-led specialist college and training provider, teaching students, apprentices and learners the most in-demand skills for the fashion and retail sector.

We offer everything from short courses to apprenticeships to bespoke training programmes from entry-level up to senior management across a wide range of in-store retail and head office functions.

OUR AREAS OF STUDY INCLUDE: BUYING AND MERCHANDISING VISUAL MERCHANDISING DESIGN AND CREATIVE MARKETING AND PR E-COMMERCE DATA ANALYTICS UX/UI DIGITAL MARKETING LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT GARMENT AND PRODUCT TECHNOLOGY RETAIL OPERATIONS STYLING PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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PLACEMENTS AND PROJECTS

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YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO GIVE BACK, SUPPORT FUTURE TALENT AND GENERATE POSITIVE SOCIAL IMPACT Our close links with the fashion and retail industry are what sets the Fashion Retail Academy apart.

Alongside courses developed in collaboration with industry experts, we work with over 140 brands to offer our students a broad range of hands-on opportunities to ensure they start their future careers with the experience they need to succeed.

By partnering with us, you can not only benefit from a preview of our students in action before they enter the job market, but it can also make your brand more attractive to job-ready graduates and help meet ESG targets.

Opportunities include work placements, mentoring, real-time projects and masterclasses, across all courses including buying, merchandising, garment technology, marketing and PR, visual merchandising, sustainability, data analytics and business.

WHY WORK WITH OUR STUDENTS?

CONNECT

BENEFIT

INSPIRE

with 1,000+ work-ready students before they graduate each year

from invaluable Gen Z perspectives and ideas for your business

the next generation while improving your coaching and presenting skills

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WORK PLACEMENTS

Almost every student at the Fashion Retail Academy is offered the opportunity to take a relevant work placement during their course, ranging from three weeks for Level 3 courses up to 3 months for undergraduates. Not only do students 10

gain valuable hands-on experience, but brands can also take advantage of early access to our talent pre-graduation – many partners go on to offer permanent roles to placement students as soon as they graduate.

PROJECTS AND CHALLENGES

There are a number of opportunities throughout the academic year for brands to set short-term and longer challenges for both our FE and undergraduate students. Students enjoy the opportunity to work on real industry briefs, while brands benefit from the fresh perspective of the students and valuable insight into the mindset of next-gen retail talent – who are also your brand’s current and future consumers. Some of our students’ past project ideas have been so successful that they have been put into operation by our brand partners.

INDUSTRY CHALLENGES

Quick turnaround challenges set by our industry partners offer a fantastic opportunity for our FE students to hone their creative thinking, team working, time management and problem-solving skills. We will work with the brand to create a brief representing a real, specific industry situation to which the students will devise a solution, working in groups. Groups present their ideas to the retailer for feedback at the end of the challenge before the retailer picks a winning team, sometimes awarding a small prize.

UNDERGRADUATE PROJECTS

All our degree students work on a live project set by a brand during their first and second year, gaining knowledge and insight into the inner workings of the industry. These projects are linked to a specific course module, and we work with our industry partners to develop appropriate briefs. At the end of the module, the students present their work in front of the retailer and their peers for feedback.

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MENTORS & MASTERCLASSES

MENTORSHIP

Mentoring offers a valuable opportunity for mentors to gain improved coaching skills and first-hand access to the nextgen mindset, while our student mentees can learn directly from their industry peers.

UNDERGRADUATES Since 2017, the undergraduate Mentoring Programme has supported our degree students by offering insight into the industry, advice on portfolios and career paths and helping expand their professional network.

Minimum commitment: 1 x 1 hour session per term, across 2 years (in-person or remote) LEVEL 3 FASHION DESIGN We also offer group mentorship to our second-year Level 3 Fashion Design students. Meet the group to support the students’ onward progression in the industry.

Minimum commitment: 3 x group sessions per year

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MASTERCLASSES

Industry masterclasses can raise the profile of your company as an employer of choice. At key points throughout the year, masterclasses can showcase your brand’s career opportunities and workplace culture and offer insight into the inner workings of the industry to further their studies.

Brand representatives give talks on a range of subjects, from overviews of the brand and its operations to targeted topics such as buying or sustainability.

C-suite executives or brand owners may discuss their career journey and current role, or give their thoughts on the state of the industry.

Masterclasses bring students’ learning to life and help them understand how the classroom theory is applied to real-world situations.

Masterclasses can be between 1-2 hours in length.

MORE OPPORTUNITIES

MORE OPPORTUNITIES

There are many ways to tap into the bright young minds of our student cohort: with thousands of fashion enthusiasts passing through our doors each year, we can offer unparalleled insight into the attitudes and values of Gen Z as consumers.

INDUSTRY PANELS Be part of an industry panel offering feedback to undergraduate students on their Final Major Project presentations at the end of their degree.

Visiting Industry Experts (VIEs) can also take part in live panel discussions on relevant topics, offering different perspectives on a range of key trends and issues.

FOCUS GROUPS Gain valuable insight on everything from new designs and social media strategy to in-store experience.

REVERSE MENTORING Develop leadership and coaching skills while learning more about the Gen Z psyche.

EXTERNAL EVENTS Need an extra pair of hands for events?

Our students are happy to help at fashion shows or press days.

INDUSTRY CRITIQUES Feedback contextual direction and guidance on student projects, to support successful outcomes.

WE ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR NEW WAYS TO WORK WITH INDUSTRY

DONATIONS As a charity, we welcome donations to support teaching, such as terminal stock, fabric offcuts, samples, display materials and mannequins.

SO IF THERE’S AN IDEA YOU WOULD BE KEEN TO EXPLORE WITH US, GET IN TOUCH: BRANDCOMMS@FRA.AC.UK FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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CASE STUDY: INDUSTRY PROJECT

OXFAM INSPIRING GEN Z TO THINK SECOND-HAND FIRST With a mission to end global poverty, Oxfam is one of the UK’s largest charities. They asked our Level 3 Fashion Retail students to explore the relationship between marketing and visual merchandising aimed at Gen Z consumers, taking into consideration the rise of pre-loved fashion amongst this demographic.

Following a background presentation from the Oxfam team, students researched existing strategies of Oxfam and its competitors to create window displays, a pop-up shop and marketing plans.

The students were able to put some of the skills they had learned in class into practice in a real-world setting, gaining experience of working to deadlines and collaborating with industry peers as well as fellow students.

The outcome was a valuable experience for everyone. The students gained confidence in self-directed research, presenting their ideas to the Oxfam panel and executing creative concepts.

Meanwhile, Oxfam learned more about a previously untapped customer base, and took away practical ideas from the students’ presentations, window displays and the pop-up shop that could be used to inform nationwide marketing strategy.

COURSE Level 3 Fashion Retail

TASKS

• Competitor analysis • Marketing plan • Window displays • Pop-up shop

It brings a lot of really new, fresh ideas. Some of the ideas that we will be taking to the marketing department could go into 560 shops throughout the UK. I think we will be bringing in more volunteers to Oxfam, and more shoppers.”

DARRIN STORE MANAGER, OXFAM

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TESTIMONIALS: WORK PLACEMENTS

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS

M&S was an amazing brand to be given for my work placement. With it being such a large company, it gave me great insight into day-to-day life and really helped me get an idea of what pathway was right for me. The opportunity was brilliant, and really helped me with my course. After my placement was completed, I was offered a Buying Admin Assistant role within the home department of M&S which I’m so proud of and can’t wait to start.”

JESSICA WESTON Level 4 Fashion Retail

The Missoma team have been welcoming, kind and extremely supportive in my first creative role, pushing me and allowing me to explore the role of a social media manager to its depths. Taking my lecturebased understanding of a social media manager to real life at industry standards has been very insightful, highlighting to me that the in-class work is very reflective of the working role it prepared me for.”

LULU HACKNEY BA (Hons) Marketing & Communications, for Fashion

BRAND TESTIMONIALS

Eloise was an absolute asset to our team during her short time with us. She was professional, insightful and curious.

Her energy, positivity and creativity were infectious within the team. I would happily have Eloise in the team without a second thought. Her passionate, cando attitude and proactiveness are key traits that I would look for in any role; everything else can be taught.”

MULBERRY

It was a pleasure to have Jess join our team for a short while; she had such a positive attitude and was eager to help in any way possible. She fit in very well with our small team and was sad to say goodbye. I will be recommending her to anyone I can and will be there for any future endeavours.”

SPACE NK PUBLIC RELATIONS COORDINATOR

HEAD OF GLOBAL RETAIL OPERATIONS

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PLACEMENTS FAQ’S

Q A

WHAT PLACEMENTS DO WE OFFER?

Almost all of the Fashion Retail Academy’s students* are offered the opportunity to take up a relevant 3 week, full-time work placement during their course. We also offer our degree students an extended part-time placement over 3 months, which sees the students spend 2 days per week on their placement alongside their attendance at the FRA. *except Level 2 Fashion Retail and Level 3 Fashion Design

Q A

CAN I CHOOSE WHICH STUDENTS I TAKE?

Q A

CAN I OFFER A VIRTUAL OR BLENDED PLACEMENT?

We work with our industry partners to ensure that we allocate those students best suited to the available opportunity, taking into account the nature of the placement, the location and the student’s attendance and work completion.

We recognise that it may sometimes be difficult to offer a physical placement due to the location of the student or the brand, so we are supporting our students to complete blended placements in some cases.

Contact us to find out more about what kind of placements you can offer.

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Q A

ARE THERE SET DATES FOR PLACEMENTS?

Q A

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE PLACEMENT?

There are certain times of the year that we offer placements to students depending on the type of course, but there is some flexibility in terms of exact timings. View our calendar to find out more and contact us for further information.

Following completion of the work placement, both the student and the brand representative are asked to complete a short feedback form which helps us to ensure that future placements continue to offer value to both the brand and the student.

On many occasions, work placement students from the Fashion Retail Academy have been offered permanent roles at the host brand to begin when they have completed their course.

STUDENT ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Throughout the academic year, we offer our students a number of enrichment opportunities which give them exposure to their industry peers and a chance to work on live briefs, as well as helping to grow their professional network.

Alongside work experience placements and industry-set challenges which run at set times of the year, we also invite visiting industry experts to give masterclasses, offer feedback as part of a panel and mentor our students throughout the year.

Please note dates are subject to change each year. For the latest information, see BUSINESS.FASHIONRETAILACADEMY.AC.UK

AUTUMN TERM OCTOBER

Placement

NOVEMBER

Placement

DECEMBER

Industry Challenge 1

Level 3 Fashion Retail - Set 1

Level 3 Fashion Retail - Set 2

Level 2 Fashion Retail Level 3 Fashion Retail Year 1 & 2 Level 3 Fashion Design Year 1 & 2 Level 3 Visual Communications & Styling Year 1 Level 4 All Courses

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STUDENT ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES

SPRING TERM JANUARY

Placement Level 4 Fast Track Buying & Merchandising

FEBRUARY

Graduation Level 4 Fast Track Buying & Merchandising Industry Challenge 2 Level 4 Fast Track Buying & Merchandising Mentor Programme Launch Level 4 All Courses (except Fast Track) Placement

Undergraduate All Courses Year 2 Extended Placement begins MARCH

Industry Challenge 2

Level 3 Fashion Retail Year 2 Placement

Level 4 All Courses (except Fast Track) Online Fashion Retail APRIL

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Placement

Level 3 Fashion Retail

STUDENT ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES

SUMMER TERM MAY

Placement Undergraduate All Courses Year 2 Graduation Level 3 Fashion Retail Level 4 All Courses

Level 2 Fashion Retail Level 3 Fashion Design JUNE

Placement Online Data Analytics Online Buying & Merchandising

JULY

Placement

Level 4 Fast Track Buying & Merchandising Graduation

Level 4 Fast Track Buying & Merchandising AUGUST

Graduation

Undergraduate All Courses Placement

Undergraduate All Courses Year 1

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APPRENTICESHIPS

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A COST-EFFECTIVE WAY TO DEVELOP RETAIL EMPLOYEES IN ALL ROLES AT ALL LEVELS Is your brand missing out on this untapped resource?

Many brands are paying the Apprenticeship Levy without using it to benefit their business, and non-Levy payers can access funding through the government co-invest scheme to help pay for apprenticeship training.

The Fashion Retail Academy is a market leader in fashion and retail apprenticeships, offering training for staff at every stage of their career – from entry-level roles all the way up to senior leadership positions.

Working together with you to support your strategic objectives, our expert tutors and programme managers use their years of experience within the industry to guide your apprentices to success.

WHY CHOOSE APPRENTICESHIPS?

86%

78%

74%

of employers said apprenticeships helped them develop skills relevant to their organisation*

of employers said apprenticeships helped them improve productivity*

of employers said apprenticeships helped them improve the quality of their product* or service

*source: apprenticeships.gov.uk

APPRENTICESHIPS ARE FULLY FUNDED VIA YOUR LEVY OR VIA GOVERNMENT CO-INVESTMENT AT 5% OF COST FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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APPRENTICESHIPS FAQS

Q

AREN’T APPRENTICESHIPS JUST FOR SCHOOL LEAVERS AND NEW RECRUITS?

A

Not at all. Apprenticeships are a flexible way to develop your existing team or attract new talent, and they can be studied by people of all ages at all levels, as long as they are learning new skills that are relevant to their role or progression. The FRA offers apprenticeships from Level 2 (entry level) to Level 7 (equivalent to a master’s degree).

Q

HOW LONG DOES AN APPRENTICESHIP TAKE TO COMPLETE?

A

Most apprenticeships are usually completed across 12-18 months, but this depends on factors such as the chosen standard and whether the apprentice is full-time or part-time.

Q A

DO I HAVE TO OFFER THE APPRENTICE A PERMANENT ROLE AFTER THEY COMPLETE THE COURSE?

Not necessarily, though in many cases brands choose to take on apprentices in areas where they have skills gaps, and therefore will offer a permanent role to their newlyqualified apprentice. Where the apprentice is an existing employee, employers may wish to consider offering a promotion on successful completion of the course, if appropriate.

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Q

I CAN’T AFFORD TO TAKE ON SOMEONE THAT HAS TO SPEND TIME OUT OF THE BUSINESS EVERY WEEK

A

While apprentices are required to spend 6 hours in off-the-job learning per week, this does not have to equate to a day out of the business each week – many businesses opt to complete the learning requirement in blocks at strategic points, such as at the beginning of the programme.

Q A

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TRAIN AN APPRENTICE?

Q

CAN YOU HANDLE RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION?

Apprentices are employees and must be paid at least the National Minimum Wage for apprentices*, but the cost of training is subsidised. If your business pays the Apprenticeship Levy, you can claim back the cost from your pot, while non-Levy payers can take advantage of the government coinvestment scheme and pay as little as 5% of the training cost.

A

Yes! We can help with advertising apprenticeships and selecting the right people for your vacancies.

But if you’d prefer to do this yourself, that’s fine too.

*for the latest information, see gov.uk/employing-an-apprentice

ALL APPRENTICESHIPS INDEX

IN-STORE RETAIL Level 2 Retailer Level 2 or Level 3 Visual Merchandising Level 2 or Level 3 Jewellery Retailer / Team Leader Level 3 Retail Team Leader Level 4 Retail Manager CUSTOMER SERVICE & ADMIN Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner Level 3 Customer Service Specialist Level 3 Business Administrator

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

FASHION DESIGN Level 3 Fashion Studio Assistant Level 4 Fashion & Textile Product Technologist

31 32

DIGITAL & SUPPLY CHAIN Level 3 Digital Marketer Level 6 Digital Marketer Level 4 Data Analyst Level 6 UX/UI Professional Level 4 Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability Practitioner

33 34 35 36 37

BUYING & MERCHANDISING Level 4 Buying & Merchandising Assistant Level 6 Assistant Buyer/Assistant Merchandiser LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT Level 3 Team Leader/Supervisor Level 5 Operations/Departmental Manager Level 7 Senior Leader

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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40 41 42

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IN-STORE RETAIL

LEVEL 2 RETAILER

COST

£4,000 per employee

DURATION DESIGNED FOR EMPLOYEES IN CUSTOMER-FACING SALES FLOOR ROLES

12 months

• Learn to use a variety of sales techniques to influence customers’ purchases • Develop effective communication skills, knowledge of legislative factors and the attention to detail • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery • Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning

In a world where consumers demand exceptional service, retail teams are more important than ever in delivering experiences that inspire loyalty and get people talking – in a good way!

This apprenticeship teaches employees to assist customers in discovering and purchasing products in a way which inspires loyalty and repeat visits. They will learn the importance of having a good understanding of stock levels, pricing and product features and the USPs of their brand to deliver a high standard of service, store admin and VM standards.

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• Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

IN-STORE RETAIL

LEVEL 2 OR 3 VISUAL MERCHANDISING

COST

FOR HEAD OFFICE AND RETAIL EMPLOYEES IN VM, DISPLAY AND SPACE PLANNING ROLES

DURATION

£4,000 - £5,000 per employee (depending on standard)

12-15 months • Learn the basic principles, science and psychology of visual merchandising • Develops skills in creative display and storytelling to drive commercial KPIs • Explores use of VM to create a seamless, multichannel customer experience • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery

Unique to the Fashion Retail Academy, our Visual Merchandising pathway is based on the Level 2 Retailer or Level 3 Retail Team Leader or Business Administration standards to deliver the only VM-specific apprenticeship in England. This programme will develop employees to conceptualise exciting new ways to encourage customers to shop.

Equipped with a background in retail transformation, employees will investigate the current retail and VM climate to create strategic and effective VM solutions that drive engagement and sales in line with the brand voice.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

• Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning • Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 16 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

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IN-STORE RETAIL

LEVEL 2 OR 3 JEWELLERY RETAILER OR RETAIL TEAM LEADER DEVELOPED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF JEWELLERS

COST

£4,000 per employee

DURATION

12-18 months • Deliver enhanced customer experience and brand standards to maximise sales • Develop technical knowledge of gemstones, metals, watches and more • Understand operational efficiency and store administration • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery

Created exclusively by the FRA to cater to the unique needs of the jewellery retail sector, this programme develops core skills and best practice in merchandising, sales and customer care alongside essential technical knowledge required for a career in jewellery retail.

Learners will also study to achieve the JET1 certificate from the National Association of Jewellers.

This apprenticeship can be delivered at Level 2 Retailer or Level 3 Retail Team Leader standard.

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• Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning • Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 16 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

IN-STORE RETAIL

LEVEL 3 RETAIL TEAM LEADER

COST

£4,000 per employee

DURATION UPSKILL STORE TEAM MEMBERS IN OPERATIONS, LEADERSHIP AND CUSTOMER SERVICE

12-18 months • Learn to enhance customer experience to maximise sales and engagement • Drive and maintain business standards through effective leadership • Understand operational efficiency and store administration • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery

Give your employees a grounding in retail best practice, developing selling, merchandising and leadership skills to take their careers to the next level.

Learners will explore a wide range of retail topics such as legislation, finance, stock handling, marketing, technology and team performance including diversity and personal development.

• Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning • Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

Alongside this, participants will gain an understanding of advanced sales strategies to both reach new customers and retain existing ones by guiding and motivating their teams to uphold brand standards.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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IN-STORE RETAIL

LEVEL 4 RETAIL MANAGER

COST

£5,000 per employee

DURATION UPSKILL JUNIOR MANAGERS TO CREATE A TALENT PIPELINE

12-18 months • Develops customerfocused behaviour to inspire team members • Maximise sales and engagement to drive loyalty through effective leadership • Drive operational efficiency and improvement by making timely decisions • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery

Retail Managers deliver exceptional customer experience and ensure the smooth running of their store day-today, while inspiring and motivating their sales team.

In this programme, advanced leadership skills in recruitment, team development and rewarding excellence are taught alongside proficiency in operational management. This includes strategic planning, setting and meeting targets to maximise income, and minimising wastage through monitoring of stock levels and analysis of service and sales data.

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• Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning • Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

CUSTOMER SERVICE & ADMIN

LEVEL 2 CUSTOMER SERVICE PRACTITIONER

COST

£3,500 per employee

DURATION DESIGNED FOR ANYONE WORKING IN A STORE OR DIGITAL CUSTOMER CARE ROLE

12-18 months • Increase knowledge of legislation, regulations, systems and resources • Gain expertise in communication, influencing and selfawareness to help deal with conflict and challenge • Hybrid, online and inperson delivery • Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning

The Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner apprenticeship teaches learners to provide outstanding service and interaction for customers at every touch point, whether physical or digital, and to deliver brand standards with consistency and passion.

• Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

Participants will finish the course with an understanding of the importance of “right first time” and treating all customers with equal respect and professionalism, allowing them to consistently deliver excellence in line with the expectations of the brand and the modern consumer.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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CUSTOMER SERVICE & ADMIN

LEVEL 3 CUSTOMER SERVICE SPECIALIST

COST

£4,000 per employee

DURATION FOR SUPERVISORS AND TEAM LEADERS TO DRIVE CUSTOMER LOYALTY AND RETENTION

15-18 months • Drive continuous improvement with customer-focused leaders • Embed a proactive approach to enhance performance • Improve decisionmaking through data gathering and analysis • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery • Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning

Designed to provide employees in customer-facing and digital roles with a high level of training in customer care and outstanding service, this programme combines technical knowledge of operations and legislation with insights into consumer behaviour.

Learners will focus on developing competence with systems such as Excel and CRM software, leadership skills, and expert communication to influence customers, deal with challenges and manage stakeholders. They will become resilient and adaptable key decisionmakers within their teams.

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• Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

CUSTOMER SERVICE & ADMIN

LEVEL 3 BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR

COST

£5,000 per employee

DURATION ACCELERATED BUSINESS FUNDAMENTALS TO CREATE STRONG ADMINISTRATIVE TEAMS

12-15 months • Develops business and commercial acumen in the context of retail • Builds skills in project and change management, finance and data analysis • Drives efficiency with an engaged and value-generating administrative team • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery

The role of administrators in retail can vary depending on the size and needs of the business or department, but it is guaranteed to be fast-paced, challenging and exciting, encompassing a wide variety of tasks.

This programme delivers a broad education in day-to-day interaction with internal stakeholders, developing transferable skills to provide efficient and flexible admin support to multiple retail departments. Learners will gain knowledge of legislation, systems such as Excel and CRM software and other resources to aid in their role.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

• Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning • Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

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FASHION DESIGN

LEVEL 3 FASHION STUDIO ASSISTANT

COST

£8,000 per employee

DURATION BOOST TECHNICAL, CREATIVE AND PRODUCT MANAGEMENT SKILLS WITHIN YOUR TEAM

12-18 months • Broad introduction to day-to-day studio life in a designer or luxury business • Specialist pathways in production, sales & operations, and marketing • Learn how to work within the studio team to create a fashion collection • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery

This programme is suited to entry-level fashion design and production staff, providing a foundation understanding of the studio environment, garment construction and the critical path, with a focus on supporting the department to source and develop new materials, styles and production techniques.

Learners will increase their knowledge of CAD/CAM processing, QA techniques, garment specifications and sourcing, and develop the skills needed to ensure clear communication with suppliers.

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• Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning • Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

FASHION DESIGN

LEVEL 4 GARMENT & PRODUCT TECHNOLOGIST FOR EMPLOYEES IN GARMENT PRODUCTION, TECHNOLOGY AND QUALITY ASSURANCE

COST

£9,000 per employee

DURATION

12-24 months • Teaches skills for developing tech packs, garment and product specifications and factory briefs in-depth, with an eye for quality and detail • Looks at legislation, QA models, costing frameworks and sustainability • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery • Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning

This programme supports team members working within garment technology or product development departments in developing the skills to support the delivery of great product.

Participants will learn how to create tech packs, garment specifications and CAD drawings as well as high-level skills for measuring garments, how to conduct fit sessions and how to brief factories to produce garment samples.

Learners can apply their knowledge to real-life scenarios equipped with their own research.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

• Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

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DIGITAL & SUPPLY CHAIN

LEVEL 3 DIGITAL MARKETER

COST

£11,000 per employee

DURATION EQUIP YOUR DIGITAL TEAMS WITH THE SKILLS TO DELIVER ENGAGING BRAND CAMPAIGNS

18-24 months • Teaches proficiency in marketing principles, project management and coding • Pairs strategic campaign planning with practical skills and application • Explores all aspects of digital marketing for increased customer engagement • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery

The Digital Marketer programme focuses on how to build digital marketing strategies from scratch, using channels such as social media, paid search, organic reach, and PR. Learners will gain knowledge in content creation and distribution, engagement and optimisation and explore video and email marketing. With a grounding in consumer behaviour and the digital environment, they will learn digital etiquette, management skills and technical knowledge of SEO and software infrastructure and apply their knowledge in practical settings.

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• Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning • Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

DIGITAL & SUPPLY CHAIN

LEVEL 6 DIGITAL MARKETER

COST

£21,000 per employee

DURATION EMPOWER MARKETERS TO TAKE THE LEAD ON SUCCESSFUL DIGITAL MARKETING STRATEGIES

18-36 months • Learn to manage, plan, lead and report on digital marketing projects • Optimise key channels and content to deliver on campaign ROI • Accurately record and report from statistical analysis of campaign performance • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery

Our Level 6 Digital Marketer integrated degree programme explores building and implementing digital marketing strategies that work across multiple channels using advanced techniques in content marketing and campaign management.

Learners will consider how to use digital marketing tactics to respond to business challenges and opportunities, how to analyse the success of their campaigns and how to manage budgets effectively. The course will also look at how e-commerce models fit into the marketing mix, and the appropriate tools and resources for a data-led approach.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

• Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning • Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

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DIGITAL & SUPPLY CHAIN

LEVEL 4 DATA ANALYST

COST

£15,000 per employee

DURATION DEVELOP IN-DEMAND DATA ANALYTICS SKILLS FOR ROLES ACROSS THE RETAIL INDUSTRY

12-18 months • Identify, understand and solve the challenges facing your brand • Teaches data dashboard building, creating interactive graphs and presentations and advanced Excel skills • Covers data security, GDPR and ethical responsibilities • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery

Understanding data is now a core skill for every role in fashion and retail. The Data Analyst apprenticeship empowers your team to use data to drive positive change across all business areas, from design and development to marketing and operations.

Employees will use industry data sets and real-life scenarios to gain confidence in this sought-after skill set, learning to interpret trends, understand customers and analyse their findings to highlight new opportunities for your business.

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• Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning • Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 10 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

DIGITAL & SUPPLY CHAIN

LEVEL 6 UX/UI PROFESSIONAL

COST

£24,000 per employee

DURATION CREATE DIGITAL EXPERIENCES TO ENGAGE, SELL AND DRIVE CUSTOMER LOYALTY

Up to 48 months • Considers specialist areas of practice and design approaches, including Human Computer Interaction (HCI) and User Centred Design (UCD) • Examines the evolving digital landscape and online/offline interactions • Explores the ethical considerations of persuasive and psychological techniques

This integrated degree programme develops skills in investigating, analysing and designing user experiences (UX) and user interfaces (UI) to continuously optimise customer engagement with digital products and services.

Equipped with a background in usercentred design practices, learners will develop skills in stakeholder management and the leadership talent to deliver complex projects. The course covers the essential research, testing, ideation and iterative development techniques to respond to changing consumer behaviour.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

• Hybrid, online and in-person delivery • Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning • Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

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DIGITAL & SUPPLY CHAIN

LEVEL 4 CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY & SUSTAINABILITY PRACTITIONER DRIVE SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE WITHIN YOUR ORGANISATION

COST

£14,000 per employee

DURATION

18-22 months • Explores data analysis, stakeholder engagement, and identification of social and environmental opportunities and risks for the business and its reputation • Learn to measure, track and report on social and environmental impact • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery • Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning

Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability Practitioners play a pivotal role in shaping organisational policy and approaches to issues such as climate change and diversity, and the skill set is in increasingly high demand.

Learners will explore how to identify opportunities to create meaningful impact and build productive relationships with both internal and external stakeholders.

They will look at developing key strategic CR&S objectives that can be adopted across the business, supporting growth while contributing to positive change in the wider context.

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• Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

BUYING & MERCHANDISING

LEVEL 4 BUYING & MERCHANDISING ASSISTANT DEVELOP TALENT TO SUPPORT ON DELIVERING AN EXCEPTIONAL PRODUCT OFFER

COST

£6,000 per employee

DURATION

12-18 months • Explores budgeting and sales planning, sourcing considerations and product development models and develops commercial instincts • Teaches confidence in use of Excel and other relevant applications • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery • Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning

Ideal for entry-level roles in buying and merchandising, this programme explores all aspects of these functions including the retail business environment, planning, budgeting, range creation and trading.

Buying skills learned will support new product selection, development and monitoring in today’s omnichannel environment. The merchandising model will look at the collation, distribution and analysis of performance reports, identifying trends, trading patterns and anomalies within data sets, supported by a range of business solutions.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

• Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

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BUYING & MERCHANDISING

LEVEL 6 ASSISTANT BUYER/ASSISTANT MERCHANDISER EQUIP YOUR TEAM TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP ON THEIR BUYING & MERCHANDISING CAREER PATH

COST

£10,000 per employee

DURATION

18-36 months • Explores trading and develops commercial instincts and strategic thinking • Encourages professional behaviour and develops leadership • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery • Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning • Open cohorts starting in February, April and September

Offering a full overview of buying and merchandising best practice, learners will explore all aspects of these functions across the retail business environment, planning and budgeting, range creation and trading, with a focus on strategic decision making and profit generation.

Building confidence in project management, leadership and data analysis, participants will consider a range of sourcing and product development models alongside their own research into consumer trends to inform decisions and build robust commercial frameworks.

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• Closed cohorts for 10 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT

LEVEL 3 SUPERVISOR OR TEAM LEADER

COST

£4,500 per employee

DURATION LEADERSHIP, PLANNING AND DECISION-MAKING TRAINING FOR MULTIPLE RETAIL FUNCTIONS

12 months

• Cover project management, relationship building and budgeting skills • Drive and maintain business standards through effective leadership • Understand operational efficiency and business administration • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery

Team Leaders and Supervisors are the first step on the management ladder, and help to drive operational success within your brand by effectively coaching and inspiring their teams.

On this programme, learners will build on a foundation of leadership best practice while exploring a wide range of topics such as legislation, finance, marketing, technology and team performance, including diversity and personal development. They will become effective communicators and valuable problem solvers in the business, capable of leading with confidence.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

• Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning • Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

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LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT

LEVEL 5 OPERATIONS OR DEPARTMENTAL MANAGER EMPOWER JUNIOR LEADERS TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP IN THEIR MANAGEMENT CAREER

COST

£7,000 per employee

DURATION 15 months

• Develops leadership behaviours to mentor and inspire team members • Maximise operational efficiency and drive key business decisions • Create, delegate and execute strategies with confidence • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery • Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning

Operations or Departmental Managers should be equipped to ensure the smooth running of their department day-to-day, by driving productivity while inspiring and motivating their team.

In this programme, advanced leadership skills in recruitment, team development and effective communication are taught alongside strategic planning and operational governance.

Skills learned will include how to analyse and interpret data, working collaboratively, time management and setting business objectives.

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• Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 12 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT

LEVEL 7 SENIOR LEADER

COST

£14,000 per employee

DURATION DESIGNED TO SUPPORT NEW AND EXISTING SENIOR AND STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL

20 months

• Use real-world examples to recognise best practice as a senior leader • Learn to confidently identify, understand and act on challenges and opportunities within your business and workforce • Explore stakeholder management, statutory compliance and reporting • Hybrid, online and in-person delivery

Equivalent to a master’s degree, this programme supports managers to step up to senior roles, by building confidence in governance, purpose, and setting and delivering strategic objectives to drive business success.

Understanding how to provide clear and inclusive leadership to develop sustainable, ethical, supportive and innovative culture and practice is core to the course, alongside using data to identify opportunities and risks. Learners will also look at effective control of budgets, people, assets and facilities, and change and crisis management.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

• Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning • Open cohorts starting in February, April and September • Closed cohorts for 10 or more apprentices starting at a time that suits your brand

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CASE STUDIES: APPRENTICESHIPS

PROGRAMMES Level 3 Retail Team Leader

HARRODS RETAIL ACADEMY

Level 4 Retail Manager

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY

Level 4 Buying & Merchandising Assistant

Harrods, one of the world’s most famous department stores, works with the FRA to create a high-performing talent pipeline of apprenticeship graduates to feed into its store management and buying and merchandising functions.

Apprentices complete one fashion and one non-fashion placement of six months each before returning to their original department to complete End-Point Assessment. A dedicated FRA programme manager coordinates progress reviews and assignments, while a mentor from the Harrods L&D team offers one-to-one coaching and support.

We are looking to take a few more people onto our Retail Academy programme this year, so whether that’s scaling our existing programmes or bringing in new standards, we’re really excited to continue collaborating with the Fashion Retail Academy.”

COZETTE TALENT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER 44

Level 6 Assistant Buyer

KEY FACTS • Partner since 2017 • 108 apprentices over 7 intakes • 100% pass rate across all programmes • Over 90% distinctions

BENEFITS Apprentices feel more invested in their learning and engaged with work Upskilling development gaps: including knowledge, skills and behaviours Focus on practical application of learning within the workplace

PROGRAMMES Level 3 Business Administrator

TJX UNIVERSITY EUROPE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY The FRA works with TJX Europe, parent company of TK Maxx and Homesense, to deliver apprenticeships for entrylevel talent in departments including Beauty, Homeware and Menswear.

Level 3 Business Administrator apprentices rotate through different departments before graduating onto the Level 4 Buying & Merchandising Assistant programme. Senior leaders within TJX Europe have helped raise the profile of the programme internally, which supports positive academic achievement and progression to permanent roles.

The apprentices have proven to be a great fit, and it’s added diversity and new energy to the business. The journey they’ve already been on in terms of their confidence feels very exciting, and I’m confident they’re going to have great careers with us.”

Level 4 Buying & Merchandising Assistant

KEY FACTS • Partner since 2018 • 66 apprentices over 7 intakes • 100% pass rate across all programmes

BENEFITS Learners demonstrate impeccable industry knowledge Close relationship between apprentices, TJX and FRA teams Apprentices feel connected and informed about development

ADRIAN EDWARDS, HEAD OF BUYING OPERATIONS & TJX UNIVERSITY EUROPE

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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TALENT DEVELOPMENT

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Recruitment and retention are two of the biggest challenges facing Talent Managers today. We can work with you to identify the skills gaps in your teams through our talent mapping service, or create bespoke training plans to support your workforce and future-proof your business.

More cost-effective than continuous recruitment, our customised on-site or remote programmes are designed around your timeframes, volumes and budget to provide a tailor-made solution for all training needs.

All our programmes are created specifically for the industry and delivered by experienced industry professionals, so that your learners benefit from real working knowledge to help them deliver results for your business.

HOW DOES INDUSTRY TALENT DEVELOPMENT WORK?

1 DISCOVER

3 DELIVER

We get to know your business and suggest training approaches

We offer a dedicated project manager to oversee your programme

2 DESIGN

4 DISSECT

We confirm objectives and refine the programme content and activities

We measure the impact of learning and the ROI for your brand

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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TALENT DEVELOPMENT

TALENT MAPPING SERVICE

Upskill, motivate and retain a workforce that is fit for purpose to keep your brand one step ahead in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Our talent mapping service follows a simple six-step process to evaluate the skills gaps in your business and identify areas for training and development, for growth and advancement in a rapidly changing industry.

01 02 03 04 05 06 48

CREATE BESPOKE SKILLS FRAMEWORK Define a tailored skills framework then overlay industry trends to map out skills needs.

MAP TEAM AGAINST SKILLS FRAMEWORK Employee self-assessment of core areas to provide data points for in-depth analysis.

EXTENSIVE SKILLS GAP ANALYSIS Analysis of the current situation and where development is required at all levels.

CREATE TAILORED DEVELOPMENT PATHWAYS Address identified skills gaps and implement continuing personal development plans.

IMPACT (RE)MAPPING Re-map staff against initial data points to measure impact and update skills gap analysis.

USE FRAMEWORK TO SUPPORT CPD Ongoing reference for progression and succession planning, performance and growth.

TAILORED TRAINING BESPOKE PROGRAMMES

Whether you need training in a specific area for immediate results, or a bespoke learning and development strategy, we create programmes across a broad range of retail functions, tailored to your budget, numbers and strategic objectives to ensure maximum benefits.

SHORT COURSES

Address specific skills gaps in your workforce in just a few hours, with minimal disruption to day-to-day operations and customised to align with your business needs.

Current courses include Core and Advanced Excel skills, with further courses available soon.

FUTURE COURSES

As the industry evolves with the emergence of new technologies and trends, we are continuously developing our course offer to meet its current and future needs. Get in touch to find out more about what’s in the pipeline.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

ONLINE COURSES

Each of our online courses has been created alongside our fashion brand partners. You’ll be taught in-demand skills by industry specialists. All our courses also include a three-week work placement with one of our 140 retail brand connections, boosting your CV and helping you grow your professional network.

DATA ANALYTICS FOR RETAIL Endorsed by M&S, this course teaches the key skills in this rapidly growing area.

Participants will use data to identify problems, recommend solutions and spot trends to inform strategic decisions and drive business growth.

UX/UI DESIGN In this course, developed with ASOS, participants look at making customer journeys easy and intuitive, examining how consumers engage with brands and the ways in which useability can improve brand image and customer loyalty.

BUYING & MERCHANDISING Covering the essential skills needed for a career as a fashion buyer or merchandiser, this course looks at planning and trading a fashion season from concept to customer; and how trends and consumer behaviour inform business decisions.

FASHION & BUSINESS RETAIL A deep dive into the structure of fashion and retail businesses, this course examines different roles and how they work together to achieve business goals, covering key skill sets such as understanding the consumer and data analysis.

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INDUSTRY TALENT DEVELOPMENT

• • •

SKILLS & STRENGTHS LEADERSHIP FRAMEWORK LEADERSHIP SKILLS AUDIT & MAPPING BESPOKE LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT PATHWAYS

An iconic British independent brand with nearly 1,200 employees globally and an average service length of nearly 7 years, Paul Smith was keen to overhaul its personal and professional development practices post-pandemic, in the context of core company values.

The FRA team worked closely with various departments at Paul Smith to understand the culture of the business and the direction of travel, then mapped existing structures and competencies against strategic objectives. From this, eight guiding principles and five areas for development were identified and built into a framework to support ongoing development at all levels.

Implementation of the new development framework was strongly supported at all levels of the business, with people managers particularly keen to see improvements in employee satisfaction, engagement and retention in a changing and increasingly competitive environment.

Following the initial period of implementation, the FRA will re-map skills and objectives, measure the impact of the programme and make additional recommendations.

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There seems to be a lot of openness and willingness to change and progress, not just within the company, but the industry is changing and developing in so many ways: it’s the right time to make sure managers are equipped to deal with that change.”

CAMELLIA HEAD OF RETAIL OPERATIONS

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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ACCESS GRADUATE

TALENT

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Amongst the Fashion Retail Academy’s vast network of students, recent graduates and alumni, there’s a good chance that you’ll find the perfect candidate to fill your fashion or retail vacancy.

Several times a year, brands get early access to meet our students before they graduate at our Careers Fairs and Assessment Centres. Our Careers Fairs are extremely popular with brands and places go quickly, while Assessment Centres allow a more in-depth dialogue between recruiters and students and often result in job offers.

In addition, our Jobs Board is promoted to both current and former students, giving you access to the best pool of talent to fill your in-store and head office vacancies at all levels. Our Careers team can work with you to make sure your vacancy gets in front of the right people at the right time.

WHY RECRUIT OUR STUDENTS?

1,000

OVER 90%

13,000+

work-ready graduates entering industry each year

of FRA graduates go straight to work in industry

alumni working in almost every fashion head office

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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FRA JOB BOARD & CAREERS FAIRS

JOB BOARD

Advertise your vacancy on the Fashion Retail Academy’s job board to reach not only our current student body, but also our alumni network of thousands of fashion and retail professionals working at all levels of the industry. From entrylevel and part-time roles to management positions, we can help you reach a highly relevant audience and enhance your team with top talent.

CAREERS FAIRS

Careers fairs are held on campus several times a year, offering an excellent opportunity to put your brand in front of our students and talk to them first-hand about careers within your business.

Some fairs focus on specific functions such as Buying & Merchandising or In-Store Retail, and events are always well attended by our students.

TESTIMONIALS

We were really impressed by the questions they were asking and how clear they were about their chosen career path and what they wanted to get out of the event.”

OLIVER BONAS

A wonderful day spent meeting with the future innovators amongst the buying, merchandising and marketing landscape.”

PANDORA

SIGNET JEWELERS

Your students were so professional, presented themselves really well, and showed a lot of genuine interest.”

A fantastic experience, met some really great students who would have great potential in our business.”

BESTSELLER

M&CO

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It was amazing to meet the talent of today. Everyone was so confident.”

Great event! Wonderful to meet emerging talent from the FRA.” TFG LONDON

ASSESSMENT CENTRES

ASSESSMENT CENTRES

Held before students undertake their Final Major Project, our YOU2.0 Assessment Centres put students through their paces in a group interview setting and role-specific tasks. Brand recruiters can host these sessions, which often results in real job offers.

TERM 1 SEPTEMBER

Careers Fair Retail/Shop Floor Roles

TERM 2 JANUARY

Assessment Centre Undergraduate courses Level 4 Fast Track Buying & Merchandising

TERM 3 MAY

Careers Fair Head Office Roles Retail/Shop Floor Roles

JULY

Assessment Centre Level 4 Fast Track Buying & Merchandising

TIMINGS FOR ASSESSMENT CENTRES AND CAREERS FAIRS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. CONTACT BRANDCOMMS@FRA.AC.UK FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION. FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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CASE STUDY: ASSESSMENT CENTRES

YOU2.0 ASSESSMENT CENTRE ONE RECENT ASSESSMENT CENTRE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ASOS RESULTED IN 13 JOBS FROM 16 OFFERS We regularly work with ASOS on Assessment Centres for our buying and merchandising students, during which they complete tasks related to the roles and take part in interviews with recruiters from the brand.

They know that our students are very aware of the brand, both as consumers and through other student engagement opportunities ASOS takes up at the FRA, such as work placements and project setting.

At the most recent Assessment Centre, the ASOS recruitment team evaluated students’ skills and suitability for live vacancies in entry-level buying and merchandising roles. Students gained confidence in interview techniques and had a chance to showcase their learning in a real-world challenge, as well as demonstrating knowledge of the brand.

For ASOS, the chance to come to the FRA and scout emerging talent is unmatched, resulting in a regular flow of high-calibre graduate talent into entry-level roles, many of whom go on to progress internally.

Working with the FRA students has been a really great experience. You can really tell from how they respond to the questions and how they work as a team that the tutors work really well with them and give them that industry knowledge to be able to step their foot in the door and perform.”

SARAH SENIOR RECRUITER

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CASE STUDY: RECRUITMENT

EMILY RICHARDS BUYERS’ ADMIN ASSISTANT, L.K. BENNETT COURSE Level 4 Fast-Track Buying & Merchandising GRADUATED 2022

THE FRA NOT ONLY GAVE ME THE TOOLS AND RESOURCES I NEEDED TO BE SUCCESSFUL BUT THE CONFIDENCE AND ENCOURAGEMENT TO PURSUE MY DREAM” “I decided to study at the FRA to change my career.

I had previously studied fashion when I was at university but wasn’t sure exactly what area to go into.

Studying two days a week around work commitments as well as being in London was great for comp shops and research for my assignments. My tutor taught me a wealth of knowledge from her time as a buyer and the units were specifically tailored to what the industry looks for.

The incredible and supportive careers service helped me extensively in preparing my CV for interviews.

The FRA not only gave the tools and resources I needed to be successful but the confidence and encouragement to pursue my dream of working in fashion.

I now work as a buyers’ admin assistant for L.K. Bennett in Bond Street - seeing a ready-to-wear range come to life and know I am part of making that process happen is really rewarding. No day in my role is ever the same and I’m excited to see where my buying career takes me.”

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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ELECTRA HOUSE

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THE NEW HOME OF FASHION’S NEXT GENERATION £50M INVESTMENT IN THE FUTURE OF FASHION

The Fashion Retail Academy has been located at Gresse Street, a stone’s throw from Oxford Street, since its founding in 2005. But having grown from just two courses and 50 students then to more than 2,500 students and over 20 courses today, we have reached the maximum capacity of these facilities.

From September 2024, the FRA will teach students from an amazing new central London home: the landmark Electra House near Liverpool Street.

Offering 90,000 sq ft of education, event and venue hire space, the move to this prestigious building is a crucial step in continuing our mission to mould the industry leaders of the future.

With increased demand for our distinctive blend of academic excellence and industry immersion, we have set our sights on a bold ambition to expand our student body to 5,000 by 2028 and introduce a raft of new courses to meet evolving business needs. We look forward to welcoming you.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

TOGETHER, WE WILL BUILD A FUTURE WHERE FASHION’S NEXT GENERATION WILL FLOURISH”

As we stand on the threshold of the next chapter in our story, we invite our industry supporters to be a pivotal force in shaping the destiny of fashion and retail’s rising stars. Having already raised £7m towards our state-of-the-art fitout, we are seeking matched funding to help us create the future home of fashion and retail education. Your generous contribution builds more than just a physical space; it will cultivate an engine of innovation and a powerhouse for creative ingenuity.

Our industry partners are central to our purpose at the Fashion Retail Academy, and in return for sponsorship, we will 60

ensure that your brand leaves a lasting impression on every student who passes through our doors of Electra House.

From branded equipment to whole-floor takeovers, there are numerous ways you can emphasise your commitment to our students’ futures, and many other benefits to becoming a sponsor.

Join forces with the Fashion Retail Academy and become an architect of change: together, we will build a future where fashion’s next generation will flourish.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT KIMBERLEY.KELLY@FRA.AC.UK

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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GLOSSARY

APPRENTICE/APPRENTICESHIP:

Learning undertaken while employed to study towards a nationally-recognised vocational qualification. Apprentices can be any age from 16+, and apprenticeships can be taken up by both new employees and existing employees.

APPRENTICESHIP LEVY:

Paid by businesses with an annual pay bill of more than £3m, the levy you pay can be used to fund apprenticeships for your workforce.

END-POINT ASSESSMENT (EPA):

The final stage of an apprenticeship when the apprentice is assessed against the apprenticeship standard by an independent assessor from an EndPoint Assessment Organisation (EPAO).

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ON-THE-JOB/OFF-THE-JOB LEARNING:

Apprentices will undertake the majority of their training on-the-job in the workplace. They are also required to spend 20% of their working hours completing off-the-job learning which can be remote or classroom-based taught sessions.

TALENT MAPPING:

The process of measuring existing competencies within a workforce against business objectives to identify skills gaps for further development.

TRAINING PROVIDER:

A company offering training courses and qualifications to other companies.

Apprenticeship training providers must be approved by the Government.

FE/FURTHER EDUCATION:

Most commonly for 16-18 post-GCSEs, before going to university or entering the workplace. Examples of FE courses are A Levels, BTECs and Level 3 qualifications.

Level 3 apprenticeships are considered to be equivalent to two A Level passes.

UNDERGRADUATE:

APPRENTICESHIP QUALIFICATION EQUIVALENTS: Level 2 Apprenticeship Five GCSE passes Level 3 Apprenticeship Two A Level passes or one T Level

Higher Education, usually for 18+ post A Levels, including BA and BSc degrees, and degree apprenticeships.

Level 4 Apprenticeship First year of an undergraduate degree or Higher National Certificate

APPRENTICESHIP STANDARD:

Level 5 Apprenticeship Foundation degree or Higher National Diploma

A template for learning which sets out what an apprentice will do during their apprenticeship, the qualification level they will achieve and the skills and behaviours they need to demonstrate in the role.

FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship Bachelor’s degree Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship Master’s degree

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FASHION & RETAIL AWARDS (F&RA)

An independent offshoot of the Fashion Retail Academy, Fashion & Retail Awards is a socially-driven assessment organisation led by retail specialists. Its dual purpose is to provide industry-leading end-point assessment services while reinvesting profits into retail education to raise the standard of the talent pipeline.

The F&RA team supports your brand before, during and after end-point assessment to help deliver the best possible outcomes for your learners and your business.

APPRENTICESHIPS WE ASSESS: LEVEL 2 RETAILER LEVEL 3 RETAIL TEAM LEADER LEVEL 4 RETAIL MANAGER LEVEL 4 BUYING AND MERCHANDISING ASSISTANT LEVEL 6 ASSISTANT BUYER AND ASSISTANT MERCHANDISER

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT FASHIONANDRETAILAWARDS.COM FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY BUSINESS

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MEET THE TEAM

YOUR PRINCIPAL POINT OF CONTACT

LEE BROWN Head of Industry Partnerships

BEVERLEY IMRIE Director of Industry Relationships

Account lead for all aspects of your relationship with the FRA, organising regular partnership review meetings with your brand, and discussions about new or refreshed opportunities to grow stronger partnerships.

Fashion industry veteran, responsible for overseeing, nurturing and developing links between the FRA and brand partners.

JESSICA DOHERTY Head of Industry Talent Development

NICOLA HARTRIDGE-OWEN Student Industry Development Manager

Leading on strategic talent development programmes including tailored training, apprenticeships and short courses.

Responsible for all industry-facing student enrichment opportunities, including work placements, mentoring, masterclasses, project setting and more.

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