FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY COURSE GUIDE 2024-25

HOME OF FASHION’S NEXT GENERATION COURSE GUIDE 2024 / 2025

I’m pleased to introduce you to the Fashion Retail Academy. We’ve been providing the most streamlined route into a career in fashion retail for 18 years and offer a range of diplomas, apprenticeships, undergraduate degrees and online courses.

We work closely with over 140 fashion brands who provide a range of industry enrichment for all of our courses, including masterclasses, brand-set challenges, work placements and a mentorship scheme for our undergraduate degree and Level 3 Fashion Design students.

Choosing your next move is an important decision. Our course guide will tell you what it’s like to study with us, with insight from our staff, students and graduates.

For the 2024/25 academic year, we’ll be moving to our new campus, Electra House, in the Liverpool Street area of London. The newly renovated building will be twice the size of our current campus, meaning that we’ll be able to grow and enable more students to kickstart their future in fashion.

We are excited to launch four new degree courses: BA (Hons) Fashion Communications & Styling, BA (Hons) User Experience Design for Retail, BA (Hons) Sustainable Fashion and BSc (Hons) Data Analytics for Retail.

The FRA’s unique mix of vocational and academic learning allows us to prepare our students for successful careers in fashion retail across buying, merchandising, visual communications, marketing and more.

We look forward to welcoming you at one of our upcoming open days where you can find out what makes our students so successful!

Lee Lucas CEO & Principal

“It’s the best decision I ever made. Thank you Fashion Retail Academy for all your support and for guiding me through the last two years. I’ve gained so much knowledge and confidence, and I feel ready to begin my fashion career with what I have learnt and the experience I have gained!”

Phoebe BA (Hons) Marketing & Communications for Fashion

WHY CHOOSE US?

140+ STATISTICS

We work with over 140 fashion and retail brands, from high street to luxury

22

bespoke fashionfocused courses

3,642

work placements completed

18

years of experience providing the fashion industry with job-ready graduates

13K

students attended & taught by us

Our Social Value (the financial value attributed to our social impact) increased to £93 million in 2021/22 MILLION £93

Our alumni work in virtually every fashion head office in the UK

ELECTRA HOUSE OUR NEW CAMPUS

After 18 years in our current location, we are moving to our new campus at Electra House near Liverpool Street, London in September 2024 so that we can provide bigger and better specialised creative, learning and communal spaces for our students.

By the time you start, the landmark, listed building will have undergone a £50 million refurbishment so that we can provide even more exceptional facilities for our students and continue to be the home of fashion’s next generation

Electra House is spread over eight floors and is being transformed into an exciting and engaging learning environment that has larger classrooms, more lecture theatres, a speakeasy, a student café, and more space for you to create, collaborate and get together.

YOUR NEW CAMPUS HAS:

8 floors (twice the size of our current campus)

A bigger library and more workspaces

35 multi-purpose classrooms

On-site café

Bespoke studio spaces

6 lecture theatres

‘Secret garden’

2 event and exhibition spaces

Dedicated fashion design and photography studios

Speakeasy for degree students

Discovery nook for group work and collaboration

ELECTRA HOUSE IS CLOSE TO:

Whitechapel Gallery

The Barbican Centre

(the biggest performing arts centre in Europe)

Spitalfields Market

Brick Lane

Shoreditch

Liverpool Street

The campus is easily accessible by tube or bus from King’s Cross, Euston, Charing Cross, London Bridge and Waterloo, and is a short walk from Liverpool Street Station. Multiple bus routes stop at Moorgate station, which is the closest bus stop to Electra House.

COMMUNITY SPACES

There will be communal spaces for students to relax in between classes, including an on-site café and a secret indoor garden. There’ll be new displays and windows through the building to showcase and celebrate student work, and we’ll have specialised event and exhibition spaces for use throughout the year.

LEARNING AREAS

We’re renovating Electra House to give our students the best learning environment. We’ll have a variety of different learning spaces, including a larger library, 6 lecture theatres, including 2 with up to 200inch screens, and bespoke studio spaces that will give our students more space to create. Students will have access to a photography studio, new digital suites, a creative lab and a discovery nook for group projects and collaboration.

GETTING TO THE FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY

Our new location, Electra House, is centrally located and has excellent transport links. The building is directly opposite Moorgate station, which has multiple Underground lines and great transport links to the rest of London.

All of our timetables are structured over two full days each week, saving you the expense of travelling every day.

ELECTRA HOUSE

LIVERPOOL STREET

LIVERPOOL STREET

MOORGATE

CLOSEST TUBE STATIONS

Moorgate

Northern, Metropolitan, Hammersmith & City, Circle lines

1-minute walk

Liverpool Street

Central, Metropolitan, Hammersmith & City, Circle, Elizabeth, London Overground lines

9-minute walk

Bank & Monument

Northern, Central, Waterloo & City, Circle, District, DLR lines

8-minute walk

TRAVELLING BY TRAIN

Liverpool Street Station is a short walk away and you can easily get to the FRA from a lot of central London stations, including Euston, King’s Cross St Pancras, and London Bridge.

TRAVELLING BY BUS

Several bus routes stop at Moorgate Station bus stop, which is the closest bus stop to Electra House.

CYCLING

There are several Santander Cycles docking stations nearby, including Brushfield Street, Finsbury Circus and Wormwood Street, and a number of cycle parking spaces, including covered racks at Liverpool Street station.

TRAVEL DISCOUNTS

· 16+ Zip Oyster cards

· 18+ Student Oyster photocard

· 16-17, 16-25 and 26-30 Railcards (add them to your Oyster card!)

· For more information on student travel discounts, see www.tfl.gov.uk

LIFE IN LONDON

London is an exciting and vibrant place to live and study. It’s a thriving city with an abundance of art, culture and entertainment to explore. Our new campus, Electra House, is in central London, giving you easy access to the amazing places and activities the city has to offer.

FASHION CAPITAL CULTURE

London is one of the major fashion capitals of the world, hosting London Fashion Week twice a year in September and February. It’s also home to many fashion brand head offices and flagship stores, meaning that you’ll have access to amazing networking and work experience opportunities, setting you up for the best possible start to your career.

Famous for its culture, London has plenty of museums and galleries that are free to visit, displaying world-class exhibitions and collections. The V&A Museum is home to the largest fashion collection in the world and has a brilliant schedule of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Electra House is right next to the Barbican Centre, the biggest performing arts centre in Europe.

ENTERTAINMENT

Hundreds of live music venues

Over 100 cinemas

7,000 bars and pubs

5,000 restaurants

World-famous West End shows

Plenty of experiential activities including going to the top of the Shard and the Sky Garden and seeing London from the top

INDUSTRY SUPPORTERS

We work with over 140 major brands*

*Brands we work with change each academic year

HOW WE WORK WITH THE

INDUSTRY

We’re proud of our strong links to the fashion industry at the Fashion Retail Academy. We work closely with some of the biggest names in retail to create and deliver our courses and to organise work placements for our students. Our Visiting Industry Experts (VIEs), mentorships and industry-set projects provide you with valuable professional skills to help you thrive in the workplace.

INDUSTRY CHALLENGE

Working in small teams, you’ll take part in a challenge set by a brand to find solutions to a problem faced by industry. This challenge is organised and judged by our VIEs and you’ll receive detailed feedback on your group’s work.

Available On:

Level 2 All Courses

Level 3 All Courses

Level 4 All Courses

Previous Projects Set By:

ASOS

Harrods

LK Bennett

L’Oreal

“The level of detail and the presentations they put together in a short period of time was incredible. It’s given us so many ideas we hadn’t thought of for our forthcoming campaign.”

Greg Digital Manager at L’Occitane

FASHION DESIGN MENTOR SCHEME

A industry mentor will be assigned to your class and you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your ideas and get support on your journey into industry or higher education. Your industry mentor will offer insight into working at a brand and can help you define your career goals.

Available On:

Level 3 Fashion Design

(2nd year)

Previous Mentors From: ASOS

M&S

River Island

INDUSTRY WORK PLACEMENTS

You’ll complete a three-week industry work placement at a fashion or retail brand, boosting your CV with valuable experience. Undergraduate students in their second year can choose to extend their placement to three months part-time (two days per week).

FASHION DESIGN MENTOR SCHEME

Level 3 Fashion Retail & Level 3 Visual Communications & Styling

Available On: (2nd year)

Level 4 All Courses

Undergraduate All Courses

Previous Placements At:

Kurt Geiger

River Island

Mulberry

URBN

M&S

Skinnydip

INDUSTRY WORK

PLACEMENTS

EMPLOYABILITY BOOTCAMP ASSESSMENT CENTRE

Our YOU 2.0 Assessment Centres are based on industryrelevant content and use the features of our amazing careers development platform to ensure you are ready for your next steps. Throughout a range of engaging and motivating activities, you will be assessed against the industry-standard competencies of leadership, communication, collaboration and critical problem solving.

The YOU 2.0 Bootcamp Assessment Centre is run by the Careers & Progression Service. For more information, please see page 108.

Available On:

Level 3

Fashion Retail and Visual Communications & Styling

Level 4 All Courses

Undergraduate All Courses

Previous Assessments By:

New Look

ASOS

Next

“My industry mentor so far has helped me build my CV and offered me a lot of feedback on my thoughts. He’s been super helpful and I really, really recommend getting involved in the programme in order to make the most out of your degree and to find out first-hand industry knowledge.”

Robert BA (Hons) Buying & Merchandising

“Whenever I’ve spoken to our People team and HR about people from the FRA, they have an automatic recognition of that level of excellence. The FRA is a school of excellence for fashion.”

Thom Scherdel Buyer at Browns

UNDERGRADUATE INDUSTRY MENTOR SCHEME

As part of your undergraduate courses, you’ll be matched with your own industry mentor for for one-on-one career support and guidance. You’ll meet at least once a term. They’ll share their professional experience and personal connections to top names in fashion.

Available On:

All Undergraduate Courses

UNDERGRADUATE

Previous Mentors From:

Ralph Lauren

Depop

Harvey Nichols

Oliver Bonas

MENTOR SCHEME

AFTER GCSES

LEVEL 2

One-year course

Ideal for progression to Level 3

Entry requirements

Fewer than 5 GCSEs at Grade 4/C or below, including Maths and English at minimum Grade 3*

100% of our Level 2 students progressed onto Level 3 courses last year

LEVEL 3

Two-year courses

Equivalent to three A-levels and up to 168 UCAS Points

Entry requirements

4 GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above, including Maths and English Language or Literature*

LEVEL 2

LEVEL 3

Our Level 2 and 3 Diploma courses are fully funded for 16 to 18-year-olds.

We design our timetables so that you are in class at the Fashion Retail Academy for two full days per week. This means that you can work part-time or get industry experience with brands alongside your studies.

PROGRESSION

When you finish a Level 2 or Level 3 diploma, you could:

· Continue studying at the FRA by doing a Level 4 diploma or an undergraduate degree

· Start an FRA apprenticeship

· Go to work in the industry

If you receive a merit or higher on a Level 3 course, you’ll be guaranteed a place on one of our undergraduate degrees.

INDUSTRY ENRICHMENT

As an FRA student, you’ll have access to a range of industry enrichment opportunities, such as masterclasses, projects set by brands, industry challenges and work placements on Level 3.

ICONS KEY

On the following Level 2 and Level 3 course pages, these icons indicate the specific features of each course:

1 Year Course

Work Placement

*Limited resit places available if required.

2 Year Course

Funding Available

LEVEL 2 FASHION RETAIL

Explore different roles in the industry

Learn about the business and design career paths

Perfect for progression to Level 3 or an apprenticeship

Level 2 Fashion Retail provides a complete overview of the fashion industry. You’ll investigate all the different creative and business roles at a brand, from head office to shop floor. You’ll also learn how the fashion industry works behind the scenes and explore a range of areas such as marketing, buying, communications, visual merchandising and design.

Through a combination of lessons, workshops and live projects, you’ll gain a broad understanding of key industry functions and develop the skills needed in fashion business. You will work on creative projects exploring design, brands and trends, and you’ll also go on regular trips to galleries, exhibitions and stores for inspiration and research.

This course is a great place to start if you’re not sure which area of the fashion industry you’d like to work in. You’ll finish with an academic qualification and industry skills that will set you up for your future career in fashion. It’s the perfect pathway to one of our specialist Level 3 courses or an apprenticeship with a brand.

MODULES INCLUDE

History of Fashion Retail Business & Marketing

KEY INFO

AWARD

UAL Level 2 Diploma in Fashion Business & Retail

START DATE

September 2024

AGE

16-18

Buying & Selling

DURATION

1 years

2 days per week

1 extra day for Maths or English resits if required*

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Fewer than 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or below including Maths & English at minimum Grade 3

Last year, 100% of our Level 2 students who opted to stay in education chose to continue studying with us.

“My time at the Fashion Retail Academy was amazing. My teachers moulded me into an independent, creative, freethinking individual and gave me the confidence to go out into industry. I would do it all over again, it was the best time of my life!”

Alex Level 2 Fashion Retail

*Limited space available

LEVEL 3 FASHION RETAIL

Explore the fashion retail environment from head office to store

Course equivalent to 3 A-levels and worth up to 168 UCAS points

Complete a three-week industry work placement

Level 3 Fashion Retail explores the fashion retail industry as a whole and encompasses a range of areas, from fashion retail management and communications to visual merchandising and production. You’ll learn about how all the different departments within a company work together, so it’s a great choice if you know you want to work in fashion but aren’t yet sure which area.

You’ll develop a solid foundation for a career in fashion, with an understanding of buying, visual

merchandising, styling, marketing and retail operations. We’ll teach you a wide range of skills including visual display and styling of products, trend analysis, marketing techniques and customer service. You’ll also complete challenges and projects set by brands and be given feedback on your work.

You’ll learn through a mix of lessons in the classroom and practical sessions in our creative studios. When you finish, you’ll be ready to progress to a Level 4 diploma, undergraduate degree, or an apprenticeship.

MODULES INCLUDE

Introduction to Fashion Retail

KEY INFO

AWARD

Marketing & Visual Merchandising

UAL Level 3 Diploma and Extended Diploma in Fashion Business and Retail

DURATION

2 years

2 days per week

Buying & Merchandising

1 extra day for Maths or English resits if required*

START DATE AGE

September 2024

16-18

Fully funded for 16–18 year-olds.

FUNDING ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

4 GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above, including Maths and English Language or Literature at minimum Grade 4

“I found the Fashion Retail Academy after searching for a fashion course. I knew I enjoyed styling and I wanted to do something hands-on and creative. The Fashion Retail Academy has pushed me towards the first steps of a successful fashion career.”

Molly Level 3 Fashion Retail

“Coming to the Fashion Retail Academy pushed me out of my comfort zone. I’m proud I did it as it strengthened my independence as an individual.”

Bev Level 3 Fashion Retail

LEVEL 3 FASHION DESIGN

Learn key skills including fashion illustration, pattern cutting and garment construction

Course equivalent to 3 A-levels and up to 168 UCAS points

Work with an industry mentor

Level 3 Fashion Design teaches you the essential skills for clothing design and creation. This challenging and inspiring course is the starting point for an exciting career in fashion design, production, creative direction or textile or pattern design.

You’ll learn skills including fashion illustration, pattern cutting and garment construction, along with trend forecasting and sustainable design theories. Take an in-depth look at sustainability and ethical production, as well as learn specialist technical skills and how to explore and experiment creatively. You’ll combine your skills to create collections of work, including sketchbooks and concept pieces.

You’ll develop your digital design abilities using Adobe software to create professional portfolios that will make your future job applications stand out. We’ll assign your class an industry mentor during your second year, who will offer insights into the industry and help you plan your career goals.

At the end of the Level 3 Fashion Design course, you’ll earn an academic qualification that reflects the specialised set of skills you’ve learnt. You can continue to Level 4, an undergraduate degree or apprenticeship, or start your career. You’ll need to pay a £99 materials fee by enrolment to cover the cost of materials you’ll use during your course.

MODULES INCLUDE

Researching a Specialist Industry Practice

KEY INFO

Developing Creative Practice

Specialist Creative Outcome

UAL Level 3 Diploma and Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication

AWARD START DATE

September 2024

AGE

16-18

2 years

DURATION FUNDING

2 days per week

1 extra day for Maths or English resits if required*

Fully funded for 16–18 year-olds.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

4 GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above, including Maths and English Language or Literature at minimum Grade 4

“The highlight of my course for me was the final major project, because you can take your own route and explore whatever you want, but your peers and tutors give you feedback. The community during the FMP has been my favourite part so far.”

Kemi Level 3 Fashion Design

“There’s a lot of courses here and a lot of choices. It’s a really good pathway if you’re looking to get into the fashion industry.”

Ivy Level 3 Fashion Design

*Limited space available

COMMUNICATIONS LEVEL 3 & STYLING VISUAL

Learn how to create exciting visual stories

Complete a three-week industry work placement

Course equivalent to 3 A-levels and worth up to 168 UCAS points

Level 3 Visual Communications

& Styling teaches you the fundamental creative and business skills you need for a styling, art direction or communications career in the fashion industry.

You’ll develop skills in creative practice, across disciplines including journalism, photography, graphics, film, PR, events management, art direction and styling. We’ll teach you how to solve problems, develop ideas and present work to clients whilst discovering your personal style. This course is perfect if you’re a creative, visual thinker with an interest in photography, styling or journalism.

Through your creative projects set by our brand partners and coursework, you’ll improve your visual language skills and learn how to communicate ideas and improve sales. You’ll also learn about fashion business and how visual communication and styling roles sit within the industry.

At the end of the Level 3 Visual Communications & Styling course, you’ll earn an academic qualification that reflects the specialised set of skills you’ve learnt. You can continue to Level 4, an undergraduate degree or apprenticeship, or start your career.

MODULES INCLUDE

The Creative Process Responding to a Set Brief

KEY INFO

AWARD

UAL Level 3 Diploma and Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication

START DATE

September 2024

AGE

16-18

Specialist Technical Skills Development

DURATION

2 years

2 days per week

1 extra day for Maths or English resits if required*

FUNDING

Fully funded for 16–18 year-olds.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

4 GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above, including Maths and English Language or Literature at minimum Grade 4

“Visual communications and styling is key to moving the industry forward. Brands are looking for the vibrant fashion stars of the future. The next generation of imaginative students can transform the industry with new and innovative ideas, bringing exciting concepts to life. This course will help develop seeds of creativity, preparing you for a career in an industry hungry for new talent.”

Lynne McKenna Fashion Editor & Stylist

*Limited space available

DIPLOMA HOW TO APPLY FOR A

1. CHECK THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Make sure you know the entry requirements of your chosen course, as you’ll need to meet these to study at the Fashion Retail Academy.

2. CREATE AN ACCOUNT

You’ll complete your application by clicking the APPLY button on our website. You’ll need to register your details and create an account before you can begin your application. You can apply immediately.

3. COMPLETE YOUR APPLICATION

Log into your FRA account to complete your application. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis throughout the year. There is no deadline, but we recommend applying as soon as you’ve made your decision because our courses fill up fast! You’ll need to declare any special needs or learning difficulties during your application, and our friendly Wellbeing team may want to contact you to discuss your requirements in more detail so that we can best support you.

4. APPLICATION SCREENING

We’ll screen your application within 5 working days. If you’re successful, you’ll receive an offer via text and email.

5. ACCEPT YOUR OFFER

To accept your unconditional or conditional offer, log in to your FRA account and click Accept!* For courses with a Materials Fee, you’ll need to pay this by enrolment.

6. ATTEND AN APPLICANT DAY

Meet your classmates and your tutors to prepare for the start of your course at an applicant day. You’ll take part in a fun workshop and hear from industry experts, current students and alumni.

7. UPLOAD YOUR FINAL RESULTS

Upload your achieved grades as soon as you receive them - please remember we work on a first come, first served basis. If you don’t achieve your predicted grades, upload your results anyway and wait to hear from us.

8. ENROL

To secure your place, you need to enrol onto your course as soon as you’re invited. You must have accepted your offer and uploaded your grades. Make sure you have your ID, evidence of your grades and proof of address with you as you’ll need these to complete enrolment.

9. WELCOME TO THE FRA!

Once you’ve successfully enrolled, we’ll send you your FRA email address, timetable and details about your first day!

*If you are aged 19 and above and you’re applying for a Level 4 course, you will need to pay a deposit of £50. If you’re self-funding, your deposit will be £350.

FEES & FUNDING LEVEL 2 & 3

16 - 18 DIPLOMA COURSES

Fully funded for students if you are 16-18 in the academic year you start and a UK resident.

MATERIALS FEE

For Level 3 Fashion Design, a £99 per year fee is due by enrolment. This covers the cost of the materials you’ll use in your studies.

EXAMPLE PROJECT

Level 3 Fashion Design

Level 2 and 3 students complete a number of project-based assignments throughout their courses. Here are some examples of project work by our Level 3 Fashion Design students

AFTER A-LEVELS OR LEVEL 3

LEVEL 4 DIPLOMAS

· Fully funded for 18-year-olds

· Qualify in just one year: fully funded alternative to an undergraduate degree

· Study two full days per week

· 3-week work placement included

· Industry enrichment including projects and masterclasses throughout the course

· Achieve a merit or distinction to qualify for our degrees

JOB GUARANTEE

We offer an exclusive Job Guarantee if you study for a Level 4 Diploma at the Fashion Retail Academy. If you’re not offered a job within six months of completing your course, we’ll refund your course fees. To receive a refund, you must meet the eligibility criteria, as per our terms & conditions. Please see our website for further details: www.fashionretailacademy.ac.uk

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

You must have one of the following:

· One A-level and 5 GCSEs at Grade 4/5 or above (including Maths and English)

· A BTEC National Diploma or NVQ Level 3

· A 1-year foundation diploma in Art and Design, plus 5 GCSEs at Grade 4/5 or above (including Maths and English)

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

· Awarded by Falmouth University and taught at our London campus

· Created in collaboration with industry

· Most programmes are accelerated two-year degrees

· Between three weeks and three months of work placements included

· Be matched with a personal mentor currently working in the industry

For more information, please see page 60

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

A minimum of 104 UCAS points. Visit our website for details.

For BA (Hons) Buying & Merchandising, you will need to have Maths GCSE at a Grade 4/C or above

Due to the creative nature of our courses, you’ll be considered on your own individual merit and potential to succeed. We encourage you to get in touch if you have achieved fewer than 104 UCAS points, thinking about transferring from another institution, or if you have other qualifications or professional experience.

ICONS

KEY 22

DATA

ANALYTICS LEVEL 4 FOR RETAIL

Huge industry demand for data analysts

Learn how to collate, analyse and report fashion data

Complete a work placement

The fashion industry is rapidly changing, and data is at the heart of it. With the growth of digital technology, huge amounts of important data are being produced, meaning there is a high demand for qualified data analysts. Analysing data can provide brands with in-depth information about their customers, who they are, what they buy and why.

As a data analyst, you’ll work at the heart of a brand, alongside teams from buying to operations management,

and merchandising to marketing. Your findings will help optimise performance, reduce costs and maximise growth.

You’ll learn the key skills for analysing data in the context of fashion retail. You’ll find out how to identify problems, find innovative solutions to issues facing the industry, and how to analyse datasets that impact important business decisions and relationships with other business partners. During your studies, you’ll investigate and solve real-life scenarios using industry datasets and

case studies to prepare you for the workplace. You’ll learn the principles of data analysis and management and how to understand the ethical responsibilities of data analysis, as well as different statistical methods and key legislation.

We design our courses alongside our industry partners to teach you the skills and attributes you need to secure a job. So, if you’re not offered one within six months of completing your course, we’ll refund your course fees in full.*

MODULES INCLUDE

Stakeholder Engagement Legislation & Ethical Consideration

KEY INFO

Data Management

“Understanding what data you have can really help you to drive a significantly more efficient business. The FRA course allows you to have all the context and understand these problems that are so unique to fashion.”

Bev

Sarah

McVittie Co-Founder of Dressipi

MARKETING LEVEL 4 FOR FASHION DIGITAL

Create innovative marketing strategies

Discover how to increase brand awareness and maximise sales

Complete a work placement

By studying Level 4 Digital Marketing for Fashion, you’ll develop an in-depth understanding of how marketing strategies are designed and implemented, both online and offline. You’ll learn about the different areas of digital marketing, such as creating social media content and business campaigns. You’ll discover how to combine these to effectively target your audience and improve sales, brand

loyalty and engagement for a business. We’ll teach you how to create, manage and measure the success of marketing campaigns, showing you the strategic techniques used by brands.

You’ll also learn to analyse and interpret business metrics to inform and improve your marketing decisions, and explore the legal and regulatory requirements of digital marketing.

You’ll learn how to set up influencer collaboration campaigns to raise awareness of a brand and increase sales, and how to plan events and mobile marketing strategies to reach target customers. You’ll practice implementing digital marketing tactics for SEO, email marketing, content marketing and promotion.

MODULES INCLUDE

Digital Marketing Metrics & Analysis

KEY INFO

We design our courses alongside our industry partners to teach you the skills you need to secure a job. So, if you’re not offered one within six months of completing your course, we’ll refund your course fees in full.*

Content Marketing Marketing Planning

“Studying at the Fashion Retail Academy was an amazing experience. I made so many friends and learnt a lot about industry. My confidence has improved massively.”

Bev L3 Fashion retail

Danielle Level 4 Digital Marketing for Fashion

RETAIL LEVEL 4 (WITH MARKETING) FASHION

Explore a wide range of disciplines in fashion

Learn how fashion retail brands are structured

Complete a work placement

Level 4 Fashion Retail (with Marketing) explores all areas of the fashion industry, investigating the entire product lifecycle from head office to shop floor. This course is perfect if you aren’t sure which fashion career path you’d like to take.

You’ll learn skills that will allow you to progress into many different sectors, including business operations, merchandising, buying and visual merchandising. You’ll finish the course with a wide range of business and commercial skills, preparing

you for an entry-level role in the fashion industry. You’ll explore how fashion businesses are structured and how the teams work together to achieve business goals. You’ll look at brand strategies and how to overcome commercial challenges and inform strategy, resources and organisational behaviour.

You’ll also develop your understanding of the operational and financial skills that are essential to running a retail brand. We’ll teach you how consumer behaviour analysis is used to find and

target new customers. You’ll also gain insight into customer purchase decisions, creating new marketing and branding strategies, and how good customer service can lead to increased brand loyalty. You’ll examine the effect of technology and shifting consumer needs and investigate how brands must adapt to thrive in the global market.

MODULES INCLUDE

Fashion Retail Business Operations & Functions

KEY INFO

We design our courses alongside our industry partners to teach you the skills and attributes you need to secure a job. So, if you’re not offered one within six months of completing your course, we’ll refund your course fees in full.*

Consumer Behaviour & Marketing

The Fashion Retail Environment

“My confidence has grown massively, and I feel so much more positive about my dreams and aspirations in the fashion industry.”

Bev L3 Fashion retail

Aidan Level 4 Fashion Retail (with Marketing)

BUYING LEVEL 4 FASHION

Explore the buyer’s role within the fashion industry

Learn how to create exciting range plans

Complete a work placement

Studying Level 4 Fashion Buying will teach you the essential skills you need to launch your buying careerone of the most sought-after roles in the fashion industry. Discover how to source fabric, garments and suppliers to create successful range plans, and learn both trend forecasting and merchandising skills. We’ll teach you how to identify market trends and how to navigate the global retail market. You’ll learn how to select bestselling products and create profitable range plans that meet customer demand and drive sales.

You’ll gain an understanding of the dynamics in which a buyer operates, how to work in a successful buying department and how to collaborate with other business areas to deliver profit for the brand. You’ll develop trendforecasting and customer analysis skills and learn how to use your findings to put customer demand at the centre of your strategic buying decisions. You’ll gain practical experience of using industry databases such as WGSN and Edited, and explore the links between social media and trend development.

You’ll also learn about managing global fashion supply chains, considering the increasing importance of sustainability and ethical sourcing. As well as completing live projects set by brands, you’ll visit a UK factory where you’ll see how digital ranges are used by suppliers to produce real garments.

MODULES INCLUDE

KEY INFO

We design our courses alongside our industry partners to teach you the skills you need to secure a job. So, if you’re not offered one within six months of completing your course, we’ll refund your course fees in full.*

“Studying at the Fashion Retail Academy is a fantastic experience. The teaching is amazing and there’s so much support.”

Bev L3 Fashion retail

Adena Level 4 Fashion Buying

Fashion Retail Buying Environment

Fashion Retail Range Planning & Building

Fashion Retail Buying Principles

TECHNOLOGY LEVEL 4 GARMENT

Learn technical sewing, production and pattern-cutting techniques

Get hands-on experience in our sewing studios to improve your practical skills

Complete a work placement

The only diploma of its kind in the UK, our Level 4 Garment Technology course will prepare you for a successful career as a fashion garment technologist. You’ll learn how to develop garments from sketches to finished products.

Working in our creative studio spaces, you’ll learn essential production techniques such as sewing methods, basic pattern-cutting and digital product development processes. You’ll explore how to work with designers and buyers and learn about different raw materials, fabrication, and the importance of garment fitting requirements.

You’ll learn how to maintain quality standards throughout the production process, and how to effectively audit and assess factories. Sustainability and ethical production are key priorities for the industry, so these concerns are woven throughout the course to understand the expectations of the role.

You’ll learn how to make garments fit perfectly and how to make details consistent across a large range of sizes and colours. You’ll also touch on how to use design technology, such as Clo3D, and how this affects sustainable sourcing and production.

To support your practical skills, you’ll look at trend forecasting and the technical aspects of the product development process. We’ll also teach you about the relationship between technical specification drawings and initial samples, and about the importance of commercial design specifications. We’ll also teach you how to work with garment samples.

MODULES INCLUDE

History & Context of Fashion Retail

KEY INFO

AWARD

We design our courses alongside our industry partners to teach you the skills you need to secure a job. So, if you’re not offered one within six months of completing your course, we’ll refund your course fees in full.*

You’ll need to pay a £99 materials fee by enrolment to cover the cost of materials you’ll use during your course.

Product Development for Fashion Retail

Production Techniques

“Studying at the Fashion Retail Academy changed my life. It opened doors for me to get experience in the industry and set me on a path to successfully start my own business.”

Bev L3 Fashion retail

Jaliyah Level 4 Garment Technology

VISUAL

MERCHANDISING LEVEL 4

Create exciting digital and physical spaces that communicate a brand’s identity

Learn to use Adobe Creative Cloud software including Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator

Complete a work placement

Level 4 Visual Merchandising

is a creative and varied course, which teaches you the key skills for visually communicating a brand’s identity and values in both digital and physical spaces. During the course, we’ll teach you the essentials of visual merchandising, spatial design and branding practices. You’ll learn how to create a memorable brand identity through designing unique logos, sustainable packaging and creative product displays to allow for dynamic retail theatre that drives customer engagement, sales and loyalty to the brand.

You’ll explore the design process from concept to execution, and learn to develop new and exciting ways to inspire customers in both online

and in-store environments. We’ll teach you how to design dynamic visual displays, shop windows and mannequins that reflect a brand’s values. You’ll learn how to style and properly handle mannequins, an essential skill for employment, and understand how the visual merchandising team works closely with other functions in a business.

You’ll also develop your skills in Adobe Creative Cloud software (including Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign), which is commonly used in the industry to create inspiring digital spaces and communications. We’ll also explore the current retail environment, and new trends in sustainability and technology and how these affect the industry.

You’ll learn to analyse consumer behaviour, and you’ll practice your styling, window dressing and prop-creation skills in our Visual Merchandising Studio. Using the work you create during the course, you’ll create a professional digital portfolio which will give you a competitive edge when taking your next steps in the industry.

MODULES INCLUDE

Fashion Retail Branding

KEY INFO

We design our courses alongside our industry partners to teach you the skills you need to secure a job. So, if you’re not offered one within six months of completing your course, we’ll refund your course fees in full.*

You’ll need to pay a £99 materials fee by enrolment to cover the cost of materials you’ll use during your course.

Fashion Retail Store Concepts

Contextual Studies for Fashion Retail

“The course content has combined all of my interests into one, I made the right decision to attend here. My time at the Fashion Retail Academy has been great. The industry talks and instant access to so many connections has been beneficial to my progression.”

Bev L3 Fashion retail

Ruben Level 4 Visual Merchandising

BUYING & LEVEL 4 MERCHANDISING FAST TRACK

Master the skills you need for an entry-level role in just 22 weeks

Learn to plan, build and manage ranges to maximise sales

Design collections that satisfy customer demands and reach profit targets

Level 4 Fast Track Buying & Merchandising will teach you the essential skills you need to start in an entry-level buying or merchandising role. In just 22 weeks, you’ll learn how to plan and trade a fashion season from concept to consumer and learn essential buying and merchandising skills. During the course, you’ll develop your understanding of the entire buying and merchandising cycle and learn how to combine creative and business skills to successfully plan a range.

You’ll gain an understanding of how consumer spending behaviour, advances in technology and social change have impacted the industry, and how these factors play a role in the buying and merchandising process. You’ll also develop trend forecasting skills and learn how to combine creative and business ideas to plan and build ranges that sell. You’ll gain an understanding of the complex issues around ethics and sustainability facing fashion retail in today’s world.

By exploring the global fashion market, you’ll learn how to source products from the international supply chain, and understand both the UK and global buying and merchandising market. There’s also the opportunity to visit a UK garment production factory.

We design our courses alongside our industry partners to teach you the skills and attributes you need to secure a job. So, if you’re not offered one within six months of completing your course, we’ll refund your course fees in full.*

TOPICS

INCLUDE

Fashion Retail Buying Principles

Principles of Planning and Trading a Range

AWARD

DURATION

START DATE AGE

February and September 2024 19+

FUNDING ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

£4,220 per annum 1 A-level & 5 GCSEs (or relevant industry experience)

“We had a lot of talks from people from different companies, different positions. We got to find out a lot about how different companies work. My highlight was going to the Fashion Enter factory in North London and actually getting to see garments being made.”

Bev L3 Fashion retail

Freya Level 4 Fast Track Buying & Merchandising

COURSE DETAILS

FEES & FUNDING LEVEL 4

UP TO 19

For those who are 18 on 31st August 2024, your course is fully funded and there are no fees to pay.

19+

If you are 19+ at the start of your Level 4 Diploma course, your fees will be £4,220 per year.*

Government funding is available through Advanced Learner Loans** Apply online - they are not means tested so you don’t need to have your household income assessed, and you won’t start making any monthly repayments until you are earning over £27,295.

DEPOSITS

Deposits vary depending on how you plan to fund your course:

· £50 if you are taking out an Advanced Learner Loan

· £350 if you are paying privately (£300 of which will be taken off the final balance)

* Tuition fees are subject to change - the fees due are effective at enrolment.

** Advanced Learner Loans are not currently available for Level 4 Data Analytics for Retail or any of our Online Courses.

“Choosing the Fashion Retail Academy was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The work placement opportunities were a highlight for me, as I gained invaluable knowledge that set me up for a career in retail. There is nothing I would change about my time at the FRA.”

Bev L3 Fashion retail

Amy Level 4 Fast Track Buying & Merchandising

EXAMPLE PROJECT

Level 4 Fashion Buying

On all of our Level 4 courses, you will complete projects based on real industry challenges and day-to-day work. Here are some examples of range planning projects produced by Level 4 Fashion Buying students.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

· Accelerated two-year and three-year courses to kickstart your career

· Unrivalled industry enrichment including personal mentors and work placements

· Apply with 104 UCAS points

Our undergraduate degrees have been created in collaboration with industry to ensure our graduates develop the essential skills and knowledge for a career in fashion retail. The Fashion Retail Academy undergraduate degrees are taught at our central London campus by our team of leading academics and industry professionals and are awarded by Falmouth University.

On our intensive two-year undergraduate degrees, you’ll learn over three academic terms a year instead of two, offering you an accelerated route into your dream career. Our timetables are structured over two full days per week, so you can work part-time while you study and save money on travel. You will complete work placements as part of your course.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

You can apply with a minimum of 104 UCAS points. We review each application individually. We welcome applications from those working in the fashion and retail industry who may not have the academic qualifications specified above but can show that they have the experience and ability to be successful on the undergraduate degree programme.

ICONS KEY

On the following undergraduate degree course pages, these icons indicate the specific features of each course.

2 Year Course

Industry Mentor

3 Year Course

Work Placement

FASHION BUSINESS BA (HONS)

BA (Hons) Fashion Business is an accelerated undergraduate degree, taught over two years. It’s designed for those who want to develop an understanding of business and management in the fashion retail industry, or those who might want to start their own business or fashion brand.

You’ll learn about the structure of the fashion retail industry and the different ways of running a fashion business. We’ll teach you about the financial, commercial and ethical factors that impact companies and organisations, along with global trends in economics, management and technology that impact fashion brands around the world, as well as corporate social responsibility and sustainability.

Accelerated 2-year undergraduate degree saving you time and money

Develop a wide range of skills suitable for a variety of fashion industry roles

Learn about new technologies and innovations changing the industry

You’ll also learn about product development and strategy, and how new products are created. You’ll gain the technical and professional skills needed to create successful business plans and understand how to implement them. We’ll teach you how to create successful business proposals and develop entrepreneurial skills, as well as completing specialised modules in globalisation and innovation. We’ll also teach you about fashion business through economic theory. You’ll develop your decision-making, leadership and problem-solving abilities, as well as your creative, financial and analytical skills, and be encouraged to think creatively and discover new ways to do business.

Fashion

Product

YOU'LL ALSO:

Complete work placements

Be assigned an industry mentor

Take part in masterclasses and workshops from Visiting Industry Experts

KEY INFO

AWARDING BODY

Taught by the Fashion Retail Academy and awarded by Falmouth University

START DATE

September 2024

AGE

DURATION

2 years

2 days per week on campus

3 semesters per year

FUNDING

£11,100 per year

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

From 104 UCAS points

UCAS CODE

18+ FAM1

“My first year at the Fashion Retail Academy has opened my eyes to the fashion industry and I’ve learnt so much already. I’ve met amazing new friends and tutors, and it’s all in central London – the heart of fashion.”

Grace BA (Hons) Fashion Business

BUYING & MERCHANDISING BA (HONS)

BA (Hons) Buying & Merchandising is an accelerated, intensive degree taught over two years. We’ll teach you the core skills you will need for a career in fashion buying or merchandising, allowing you to develop creative and analytical skills to make informed commercial decisions for a fashion brand.

You’ll learn about the buying and merchandising process, from product concept to global trading, as well as about the contemporary fashion industry in all aspects. You’ll study trading, sourcing and supply chains and we’ll teach you about the whole fashion supply chain, from creating concepts to consumer behaviour.

Accelerated 2-year undergraduate degree saving you time and money

Learn how to plan and deliver innovative product ranges

Discover how to use data to inform decisions

You’ll also look in detail at the garment manufacturing process, fabric sourcing and the ethical considerations and principles of supply chain management. We’ll teach you about consumer behaviour and how to interpret data, which is essential to any buying or merchandising role.

We’ll teach you to understand the relationship between stock, sales and profit, and how to plan successful pricing strategies, and study the cultural, social, personal and economic habits of consumers to develop your contextual knowledge. You’ll learn how to make informed, commercial decisions and the essential trend forecasting skills to deliver on a brand’s business goals. Fundamentals

Product Innovation & Range Planning

YOU'LL ALSO:

Complete work placements

Be assigned an industry mentor

Take part in masterclasses and workshops from Visiting Industry Experts

KEY INFO

AWARDING BODY

Taught by the Fashion Retail Academy and awarded by Falmouth University

START DATE

September 2024

AGE

DURATION

2 years

2 days per week on campus, 3 semesters per year

FUNDING

£11,100 per year

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

From 104 UCAS points and Maths GCSE at Grade 4/C or above

UCAS CODE

18+ BUM1

“I can’t believe how much fun I’ve had studying at the Fashion Retail Academy. I’ve met some incredible people and progressed my knowledge and skill set more than I’d imagined.”

Bev L3 Fashion retail

Margaret BA (Hons) Buying & Merchandising

MARKETING & FOR FASHION COMMUNICATIONS BA (HONS)

BA (Hons) Marketing & Communications for Fashion is an accelerated 2-year undergraduate degree. You’ll develop the technical skills and aesthetic understanding you need to produce, communicate and implement effective marketing campaigns and communications strategies. You’ll discover the full marketing mix used by fashion brands, including PR and communications techniques, marketing tools like SEO and social media and creative digital skills.

You’ll study modules including marketing fundamentals, PR, data analysis and visual communications and learn the theory behind marketing concepts and principles as well as all the technical skills you’ll need to create effective marketing campaigns.

Accelerated 2-year undergraduate degree saving you time and money

Learn to produce marketing strategies and campaigns

Develop skills in promotion, digital marketing and PR

We’ll teach you how brand identity is used as a strategic tool to promote products and build brand loyalty with consumers, and we’ll investigate brands that are pushing marketing and promotion boundaries in digital and social media.

You’ll develop your creative and analytical expertise and gain an understanding of how communications are important for brand positioning and consumer perception. You’ll learn about strategic and social media marketing, professional strategies and data analytics in business. You’ll learn how to interpret data and apply consumer research to digital marketing campaigns and strategies, as well as gain knowledge of the wider fashion retail industry.

SPECIALIST MODULES INCLUDE

Marketing Fundamentals

Digital

Digital

YOU'LL ALSO:

Complete work placements

Be assigned an industry mentor

Take part in masterclasses and workshops from Visiting Industry Experts

KEY INFO

AWARDING BODY

Taught by the Fashion Retail Academy and awarded by Falmouth University

START DATE

September 2024

AGE

18+

UCAS CODE

MAC1

DURATION

2 years

2 days per week on campus, 3 semesters per year

FUNDING

£11,100 per year

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

From 104 UCAS points

“What sets the FRA apart from the rest is the industry connections: from industry mentors, work placements, job and internship opportunities. Without these, I wouldn’t have had the skills, experience or confidence needed to be in industry.”

Abbie BA (Hons) Marketing & Communications for Fashion

FASHION & STYLING COMMUNICATIONS BA (HONS)

BA (Hons) Fashion Communications & Styling is an accelerated 2-year undergraduate degree. You’ll develop fashion-focused communication, styling and storytelling skills, and gain a practical foundation for a range of creative and commercial roles. You’ll look at how to communicate brand messages and trend stories in a fashion environment and develop your own creative practice and professional portfolio, as well as complete work placements as part of the course.

You’ll study modules such as Fashion Image, Fashion Storytelling and Entrepreneurial Practice, and learn about the cultural theories that will affect the future of fashion communication. You’ll also receive a detailed introduction to all aspects of the industry.

Accelerated 2-year undergraduate degree saving you time and money

Learn to produce innovative fashion imagery

Develop skills in styling, communication and storytelling

You’ll be able to create effective communications strategies, as well as develop the technical and analytical skills you’ll need for industry and discover how various live social channels have disrupted the fashion industry and changed the future of media broadcasting.

We’ll teach you how identity can be communicated through both image and context, and how to create 360º moving images including film, animation and live performances for the fashion industry. You’ll develop an understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and how to demonstrate these values through your work. You’ll discover how to effectively research, curate and evaluate visual references as well as learn how to define your own creative perspective.

SPECIALIST MODULES INCLUDE

Product Styling & E-commerce

Fashion Motion

Fashion Image Fashion Identity

Complete work placements

Be assigned an industry mentor

Take part in masterclasses and workshops from Visiting Industry Experts

KEY INFO

AWARDING BODY

Taught by the Fashion Retail Academy and awarded by Falmouth University

2 years

2 days per week on campus, 3 semesters per year

START DATE AGE

DURATION FUNDING

September 2024

£11,100 per year

18+ FCS1

From 104 UCAS points

UCAS CODE

BRAND NEW COURSE!

BA (HONS) USER EXPERIENCE

DESIGN FOR RETAIL

BA (Hons) User Experience Design for Retail is an accelerated 2-year undergraduate degree. You’ll develop the essential creative skills and theoretical knowledge to create user experiences that are intuitive, engaging and cultivate brand loyalty. User experience (UX) design focuses on how people interact with a platform, looking at usability and function, whereas user interface (UI) design focuses on the aesthetics and construction of a website or app, taking design concepts to the final, customer-facing product.

You’ll explore the fundamental practices and skills of both aspects to allow you to develop your practice. Storytelling is central to UX/UI design, and you’ll learn how to create engaging user experiences.

Accelerated 2-year undergraduate degree saving you time and money

Create exciting and innovative user experiences

Develop skills in storytelling, web design and social media

You’ll grow your practical skillset and develop advanced UX/UI design skills in prototyping, AB testing, design accessibility. You’ll also explore the environmental, social and ethical impacts of UX/UI design within the fashion industry and understand the legal frameworks in place, as well as completing work placements as part of the course.

You’ll also explore emerging technology and design principles and theories, giving you an extensive industry context to apply to your work. You’ll learn how to adopt a design mindset and approach problems from a user’s perspective so that you can create innovative, design-driven solutions.

UX/UI Design Fundamentals Design Thinking & Concept Development

UX/UI Design Production Interactive Experiences through Storytelling

Complete work placements

Be assigned an industry mentor

Take part in masterclasses and workshops from Visiting Industry Experts

KEY INFO

AWARDING BODY

Taught by the Fashion Retail Academy and awarded by Falmouth University

2 years

2 days per week on campus, 3 semesters per year

START DATE AGE

September 2024

£11,100 per year

18+

UCAS CODE

UXD1

From 104 UCAS points

SUSTAINABLE FASHION BA (HONS)

BA (Hons) Sustainable Fashion is an accelerated 2-year undergraduate degree. You’ll explore the politics, science and processes for corporate responsibility (CSR), investigate production and consumption and look at the practical aspects of a truly sustainable supply chain. You’ll learn about the social responsibility of the fashion industry and the role of the retail sector from an ethical perspective.

We’ll teach you a range of practical skills to underpin the theoretical knowledge, and you’ll examine if the fashion industry can be sustainable and ethical, and can contribute to the global drive to net zero, as well as complete work placements as part of the course. The course will focus on the pressing sustainability issues facing the industry today and how to find solutions.

Accelerated 2-year undergraduate degree saving you time and money

Complete work placements and work with an industry mentor

You’ll be introduced to the core principles of the fast-evolving ethical and legal sustainability frameworks affecting the fashion industry. You’ll also look at the role of technology in sustainable practice and explore how emerging technologies for production and distribution will make a difference environmentally and economically.

You’ll also study production management and the ethical supply chain, exploring the technical and practical aspects of creating products and looking at the benefits and negatives of onshore and offshore production, materials and logistics. Sustainable fashion is a quickly developing area of the industry and with this course you’ll be prepared to start a career making a difference in this fastgrowing and important sector.

SPECIALIST MODULES INCLUDE

Fundamentals of Sustainability and ESG for Fashion

Discover how to drive progressive industry change *Course

Production Management & Ethical Supply Chains

The Economic Impact of Sustainable Practices

Technology & the Future of Sustainable Fashion

YOU'LL ALSO:

Complete work placements

Be assigned an industry mentor

Take part in masterclasses and workshops from Visiting Industry Experts

KEY INFO

AWARDING BODY

Taught by the Fashion Retail Academy and awarded by Falmouth University

START DATE

September 2024

AGE

DURATION

2 years

2 days per week on campus, 3 semesters per year

£11,100 per year

FUNDING ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

From 104 UCAS points

UCAS CODE

18+ SUF1

BRAND NEW COURSE!

BSC (HONS) FOR RETAIL DATA ANALYTICS

BSc (Hons) Data Analytics for Retail is a 3-year undergraduate degree. You’ll investigate the fundamentals of data analytical processes including data gathering, management and legislation, and learn how to use your findings to make a difference across industry, as well as complete work placements as part of the course.

You’ll learn about the four key categories of analytics: descriptive, diagnostic, predictive and prescriptive. You’ll take an in-depth look at the role and how analysts work across the fashion industry. You’ll explore how analytics can be used for trend forecasting, global markets, managing inventory and consumer targeting, as well as the relationship between the creative and production processes.

Develop the essential skills and knowledge to become a data analyst

Learn how data is shaping the future of the fashion industry

Explore the key categories of analytics: descriptive, diagnostic, predictive and prescriptive

An essential part of being an analyst is understanding the legal frameworks that protect businesses and individuals, so you’ll learn to practice ethically and develop skills to be a conscious practitioner. You’ll be assessed through projects, essays and presentations.

You’ll be introduced to the core principles of data analytics, develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours to prepare and organise data, as well as learning essential analytical processes. You will explore the value of big data and emerging technologies, as well as how to analyse big data for businesses. Data analytics is a quickly developing area of the industry with huge potential for growth, and with this course you’ll be prepared to start using data to make a difference.

SPECIALIST MODULES INCLUDE

Big Data & Emerging Technologies in Business

Fundamentals of Data Analytics Data Management & Visualisation

Market Research

YOU'LL ALSO:

Complete work placements

Be assigned an industry mentor

Take part in masterclasses and workshops from Visiting Industry Experts

This course requires a laptop capable of running Excel, Power BI and related analytics software

KEY INFO

AWARDING BODY

Taught by the Fashion Retail Academy and awarded by Falmouth University

September 2024

18+

BRAND NEW COURSE!

3 years

2 days per week on campus, 3 semesters per year

From 104 UCAS points

DEGREE HOW TO APPLY FOR A

You can apply to all our undergraduate courses at www.ucas.com

You’ll need to have a minimum of 104 UCAS points to qualify for our undergraduate degree programmes, from Level 3 equivalent qualifications such as:

A-levels a UAL Extended Diploma

a BTEC Extended Diploma a Foundation Diploma

You can check how many points you have on the UCAS Tariff Calculator

To complete your application, you’ll need to fill in a UCAS application form, which includes:

· a 500-word personal statement, showing your knowledge of and commitment to the subject

· 2 references from your teachers (or other professionals)

If you miss the first UCAS deadline, you can also apply through UCAS Extra until the end of June. From July onwards, we will also accept applications through Clearing.

ATTEND

AN APPLICANT DISCOVERY DAY

Once you have received your offer, you’ll be invited to attend a Discovery Day to find out more about life as a student at the Fashion Retail Academy. You’ll be able to visit our campus, listen to talks from exciting guest speakers, ask questions about the FRA and meet your fellow students.

UCAS DEADLINES

All applications to UK universities for full-time undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). You need to keep these deadlines in mind, as missing them could put your application at risk. The deadline is in January - don’t leave your application to the last minute!

UCAS EXTRA

This service allows you to keep applying for courses between February and July. If you’ve used all five of your choices on your original application and have not received any offers, you’ll be able to add another choice using Extra.

UCAS CLEARING

Clearing matches applicants to university places that are not yet filled. The service is available to everyone and you don’t need to have already made a UCAS application.

FEES & FUNDING UNDERGRADUATE

If you are 18+, a UK resident and studying for an undergraduate degree, your fees will be £11,100 for each year of an accelerated 2-year degree or £9,250 for each year of a 3-year degree.

The most common way to fund undergraduate studies is through tuition fees and maintenance loans, which will be repaid in instalments once your income reaches the required threshold amount.

For the latest information on loans and repayments, visit www.gov.uk/studentfinance

MAINTENANCE LOAN

For funding to help cover cost-of-living expenses whilst at the Fashion Rertail Academy, students can also apply for a maintenance loan. All students who qualify for funding support are eligible to borrow the minimum amount, and to borrow more than this, you’ll need to have your household income assessed.

* Tuition fees are set annually and are subject to review each year. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible.

APPLYING FOR STUDENT FINANCE

In certain circumstances, you might be eligible for additional funding and support from Student Finance England, such as:

· Childcare Grant

· Adult Dependants’ Grant

· Parents’ Learning Allowance

· Disabled Students’ Allowance

· Travel Grant (for students studying abroad)

For further information, visit www.gov.uk/student-finance/extra-help

STUDENTS FROM SCOTLAND, WALES, NORTHERN IRELAND OR THE CROWN DEPENDENCIES

If you live in Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales or the Crown Dependencies, you’ll need to apply to your regional finance team for funding.

COURSE COSTS

If you need to bring equipment or materials with you, these will be outlined in your induction. You will also need to budget for other course-related expenses such as trips, final portfolios and shows.

Scan the code for more information

EZRA BROWN

CO-FOUNDER OF IMPOSSIBLE OBJECTS

I am currently running a wholesale and production agency with two business partners. We provide consultancy services for international brands looking to enter the European fashion retail market.

We started the business in 2021 which is two years after I left the FRA. I studied BA (Hons) Fashion Busines during my time at the FRA which is where I was able to learn the fundamentals of management and start building my industry network. The course allowed me to gain a comprehensive understanding of the different roles within the fashion industry and how all of these contribute to the operation of businesses.

One of my placements whilst at the FRA led to a part-time job upon completion of my placement which then led to a full-time role with this company after graduating. The knowledge gained and opportunities taken whilst at the FRA contributed massively to my personal development, all of which has put me in the position to make business decisions with confidence.

BUYING ASSISTANT AT MARKS & SPENCER TENI OGINNI

I graduated from the Fashion Retail Academy in 2021 and I currently work in Marks & Spencer as a Buying Assistant on Men’s Accessories. I studied BA (Hons) Buying & Merchandising and it’s one of the best things I have ever done. Not only was my degree so flexible, but I came away with a wealth of knowledge, equipping me to propel myself into starting my fashion career. A huge part of this was down to the high level of teaching by the tutors who were industry experts.

The Fashion Retail Academy created an environment where we could learn and develop ourselves was young professionals. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to take on new experiences such as being involved in Student Council, where I took on the role of Student Vice President which enhanced my confidence and professional abilities.

With the support of the Careers team, I was able to secure a threeweek placement at M&S. While on placement I utilised all my skills and knowledge which allowed me to fully immerse myself into the role and help me land my current permanent position. Almost 2 years on and I am loving my journey so far, which I know would not have been possible without the FRA.

I graduated from the Fashion Retail Academy in 2021 and I currently work in Marks & Spencer’s as a Buying Assistant on Men’s Accessories. My main role involves managing and organising the critical path to make sure products land in store and online on time. In our role we are involved in every aspect of product cycle and work alongside most teams in the business, from organising samples for marketing shoots to collaborating with the design team and even negotiating our ranges with the merchandising team. This very aspect of collaboration makes the role so unique and offers such a wellrounded view into the industry.

EXAMPLE PROJECT

Undergraduate BA (Hons) Fashion Business

As an undergraduate student, you will have the opportunity to work on projects based on real industry briefs. Here is an example of a project produced by a BA (Hons) Fashion Business student.

ONLINE COURSES

Our online courses have been designed with our fashion industry partners across a range of subjects to fill emerging gaps in the industry and propel you into a new career or allow you to upskill in your current role.

Because they are entirely taught online, you can study with the Fashion Retail Academy from the comfort of your own home, and the flexible timetable means you can conveniently fit your learning around your other commitments. You’ll have a compulsory live lesson one evening every week, alongside optional sessions and an average of six hours of independent study per week. This means you can continue working full or part-time whilst you study the in-demand skills that brands are looking for.

EXTRA SUPPORT

In addition to your live lesson every week, you’ll also have access to additional support through:

· Bookable weekly sessions with your tutor

· Themed discussion forums with your class every other week

· Bookable appointments with our library and online learning assistants

· The Careers & Progression Service can help you with your onward progression

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

We welcome applicants with an undergraduate degree, A-levels or equivalent qualifications. We also encourage applicants with employment experience.

We recommend GCSE Maths & English at Grade 4/C or above as a minimum

For international students, we require IELTS Grade 5

BUYING & ONLINE MERCHANDISING

Studying Buying & Merchandising online, you’ll learn how the teams work together to plan and trade a successful fashion season, and how departments collaborate to maximise sales.

We’ll teach you how to understand consumer data, spot trends and make the right strategic decisions for a successful business. You’ll learn

about the stages of the supply chain, from sourcing to production, and learn how items are delivered to customers, both in-store and online. You’ll gain necessary skills such as critical paths and costing techniques, as well as exploring the increasing importance of sustainability, social influences and ethical production within the fashion industry.

Learn how to buy and plan a range from start to finish, following a real season

Design collections that satisfy customer demands and reach profit targets

Master trend forecasting and learn how to spot bestsellers

You’ll master the techniques for selecting bestselling products and buying them in the right quantities, making sure everything arrives in stores at the right time to maximise sales and profits. You’ll also learn about competitor reviews, experiential retailing and ‘comp shops’. You’ll collaborate with other students and take part in regular discussion sessions, as well as learn to use industry software and databases including WGSN, Edited, Drapers and Excel.

After 36 weeks, you’ll be ready for an entry-level job in industry. There is particular demand in the industry for entry-level merchandisers, with opportunities for rapid progression for strong candidates.

KEY INFO

START DATE

September 2024

GUIDELINE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

GCSEs including Maths & English at Grade 4/C or above

DURATION FEES

36 Weeks

£2,100

Interest free payment plans available

“I am notably more aware of factors and issues within industry that I was completely oblivious to prior to the course, and that has been eye-opening as well as contextual.”

Leah Online Buying & Merchandising

ONLINE USER EXPERIENCE DESIGN FOR FASHION

With our Online User Experience Design for Fashion course, you’ll master the key skills of User Experience and User Interface design, preparing you for an exciting career at the cutting edge of the fashion industry.

You’ll learn how to make customers’ experiences with a brand easy and intuitive. We’ll teach you how customers engage with a business, and how user-friendly and engaging products can improve a brand’s image and encourage customer loyalty. Discover the creative ‘design thinking process’ and investigate the importance of research to the success of UX and UI design. You’ll master the practical skills you need to build user interfaces like websites and apps, including information architecture, structure, workflow and content usability.

Develop effective design and storytelling skills

Learn to design and build products and services that excite customers, build brand loyalty and drive sales

Huge industry demand for skilled UX and UI designers

You’ll learn about specialist UX/UI concepts and software including Figma and Adobe XD.

You’ll also explore key business theories behind branding, graphic design and consumer behaviour. We’ll teach you how to use these to support your creative ideas and design seamless engagement between customers and businesses. You’ll learn how to ensure that your work is legal, ethical and accessible, and we’ll teach you about community management practices and how they can impact a business. You’ll also explore ethics, inclusivity and accessibility in design, and have fortnightly thematic discussions with your tutors and peers to discuss your ideas. As your final project, you’ll create a professional digital portfolio.

KEY INFO

START DATE

September 2024

GUIDELINE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

GCSEs including Maths & English at Grade 4/C or above

DURATION

36 Weeks

FEES

£2,100

Interest free payment plans available

“UX/UI is essential. Without a good user experience on a site, customers will not be able to buy products and they can lose ranking on Google because of that. Everyone’s competing for that number one spot - the difference between being on the front page of Google and the second page of Google is literally millions of pounds.”

James Digital Marketing Manager at Rise At Seven

DATA ONLINE ANALYTICS FOR RETAIL

Understanding data is now a core skill required in every role in fashion retail. With our Online Data Analytics for Retail course, you can fast-forward your career by developing your data analytics skills, and either enhance your current position or start a whole new career. As a data analyst, you’ll work at the heart of a business alongside many different departments including buying, sustainability and operations.

Studying Data Analytics for Retail, we’ll teach you to develop creative solutions to challenges and identify new opportunities for brands through skills including data interpretation, data cleansing and an understanding of essential software including PowerBI, Excel and DAX.

Learn how to optimise performance, reduce costs and maximise growth through data

Work at the heart of a business, informing strategic decisions and influencing the future direction of a brand

Huge industry demand for data analysts

You’ll learn to find and solve problems within a business, analysing data at all stages of the design, development, construction and marketing process, and contributing to the future direction of the brand. You’ll learn the principles of data preparation, management and analysis which are highly transferrable skills that can be used across many different industries and roles.

Throughout your studies, you’ll use industry datasets and case studies to investigate and solve real-life scenarios to prepare you for the workplace. You’ll complete the course with a thorough understanding of data analysis within fashion, ready for an entry-level role in the industry - where skilled data analysts are in high demand.

KEY INFO

START DATE

September 2024

GUIDELINE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

GCSEs including Maths & English at Grade 4/C or above

AWARDING BODY

BCS Digital Modular Programme (Level 4)

DURATION FEES

36 Weeks

£3,100

Interest free payment plans available

“Understanding data in the fashion industry allows you to notice and react to upcoming trends, and even create them yourself, by being closer to your audience than ever before. Not only can this inform the creative process, but it allows a brand to solve business and real-world problems.”

Thierry Head of Data Insight at SALT.agency

FASHION ONLINE BUSINESS & RETAIL

Studying Fashion Business & Retail online, you’ll learn about how businesses are structured within the fashion industry, and how all the roles and departments work together to achieve business goals.

We’ll teach you the key skills fashion brands are looking for, including how to understand and analyse consumer behaviour and the fundamentals of data analytics. You’ll investigate how technology has disrupted the retail environment, and the trend towards blending physical and virtual shopping experiences, including the concepts of virtual, omnichannel and experiential retailing. You’ll discover the impact of environmental, social and corporate governance, and the changing nature of the fashion retail industry.

Explore the full range of careers available within the fashion industry

Learn the importance of consumer behaviour and data analysis

Discover how modern brands balance business goals with environmental and ethical concerns

You’ll explore the increasing consumer demand for sustainable and ethical fashion, and how to use consumer behaviour data to inform future business strategy. We’ll also teach you about using data in a fashion business environment, including customer profiling, compshops and trend forecasting, so that you can learn how to devise creative solutions for problems faced by brands.

This is the perfect course if you’d like to develop your skills across a range of areas in the fashion industry, maximising your career opportunities with a broad and varied skillset. You’ll complete your studies ready for a wide range of industry roles, like marketing, buying, merchandising and management.

KEY INFO

START DATE

September 2024

GUIDELINE

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

GCSEs including Maths & English at grade 4/C or above.

DURATION FEES

36 Weeks

£2,100

Interest free payment plans available

“We got to network really well and it was such a great experience.”

Natalie Online Fashion Business & Retail

EXAMPLE PROJECT

Online UX/UI Design

Learners taking our online courses produce projects based on real industry briefs. Here are examples of the projects created by Online UX/UI Design students.

ONLINE COURSE HOW TO APPLY FOR AN

1. SIGN UP

You’ll sign up for your course on our website. We recommend signing up as soon as you’ve made your decision!

2. SET UP YOUR PAYMENTS

When you sign up for your course, you’ll need to set up a payment plan to secure your place.

3. ENROLMENT

You’ll need to enrol before your course starts. You will need to upload your proof of address and proof of ID. If you are an international student, we’ll also need evidence of IELTS Grade 5.

4. WELCOME TO THE FRA!

Once you’ve successfully enrolled, we’ll send you everything you need to start your studies and give you access to our online learning platform. You’ll be given the times and dates of your weekly live lesson.

FEES & FUNDING

COURSE FEES

Buying & Merchandising: £2,100

Data Analytics for Retail: £3,100

UX/UI Design: £2,100

Fashion Business & Retail: £2,100

When you set up a payment plan, you have three options:

· 2 payments of 50% each

· 6 monthly payments

· Full Payment upfront

All payment plans are 0% interest (Tuition fees are subject to change - the fees due are effective at enrolment)

In the highly unlikely event that the course is cancelled, your payment will be refunded in full.

EU & INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Our online courses are open to applications from international students. EU students can now attend the Fashion Retail Academy online as international students.

We require a minimum of IELTS grade 5 for non-native English language speakers. You’ll also need to provide Proof of Residency as part of your sign-up process.

There is one compulsory live session, one evening a week (UK GMT). It’s important you’re able to attend the compulsory live sessions. You will be expected to complete 4-6 hours of independent study a week and attend a fortnightly themed discussion session.

For more information, visit our website: www.fashionretailacademy.ac.uk/online-fashion-courses

“I really enjoyed all the interactive parts and the insights from the industry.”

Caroline Online Buying & Merchandising

“We got to network really well, and it was such a great experience.”

Natalie Online User Experience Design for Fashion

“I’ve enjoyed being creative and making my ideas come to life.”

Naecia Online Buying & Merchandising

CLUB SATURDAY

· Free course for 13-16 year-olds

· No grades or assessments

· Learn about job roles and study options in the fashion industry

Retail Academy

The Fashion & Business Saturday Club is a 30-week, free course for young people aged 13-16, supported by the British Fashion Council. You’ll learn about the creative and business aspects of the industry, and we’ll introduce you to all the different job roles available, from head office to shop floor. Discover areas of of the fashion industry such as design, garment construction, fashion illustration, styling and marketing strategies.

We’ll teach you new skills and show you all the options for further study. We’ll help you grow in confidence and develop your fashion knowledge whilst you learn from our experienced tutors. You’ll have maximum creative freedom, as there are no grades or assessments! Best of all, you can make new friends by joining a group of people with a shared interest in fashion.

The 30-week course will guide you through the world of fashion from product idea to shop floor. We’ll show you all the stages of clothing creation, before moving on to the business side of fashion. At the end of the course, you will take part in a public exhibition.

APPRENTICESHIPS

An apprenticeship combines study and work, allowing you to earn a wage while you learn and gain hands-on experience. You’ll learn valuable skills and knowledge in your chosen area through a mix of formal training and learning at work. At the Fashion Retail Academy, we offer a range of apprenticeships within the fashion and retail industries.

Our apprenticeships are rated as EXCELLENT by over 95% of our employers and the FRA is in the top 10% of all ‘Excellent’ rated Training Providers in the UK.

(Government employer feedback ratings, March 2023)

WHAT WE OFFER

We offer professional apprenticeship programmes from Level 2 (equivalent to 5 GCSE passes) up to Level 7 (equivalent to a Master’s degree), which are usually between one and three years long. During your apprenticeship, you’ll be employed by a fashion or retail brand while studying with the FRA to gain an industry-recognised Apprenticeship Standard.

“The tutors that teach our learners make the effort to educate themselves about our business and learn about their students’ roles. They deliver the apprenticeship content in a bespoke manner using relevant examples which relate to our learners. The tutors build great relationships with our learners and tailor the courses to their needs. They strive to encourage our learners to excel, and I am proud to say we have achieved fantastic apprenticeship results over the past 5 years.”

Katie Talent Development Advisor at Harrods

THE APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMMES WE OFFER INCLUDE:

RETAIL

Level 2 Retailer

Level 3 Retail Team Leader

Level 4 Retail Manager

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner

Level 3 Customer Service Specialist

BUYING & MERCHANDISING

Level 3 in Business Administrator

Level 4 Buying and Merchandising Assistant

Level 6 Assistant Buyer and Merchandiser

DIGITAL MARKETING

Level 3 Digital Marketer

DATA ANALYTICS

Level 4 Data Analyst for Retail MANAGEMENT

Level 3 Team Leader or Supervisor

Level 5 Departmental or Operational Manager

Level 7 Senior Leader

APPRENTICESHIPS

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Your previous qualifications and career experience will dictate the programme and level you can study as an apprentice. Entry requirements vary for each programme, but we recommend that you have English and Maths GCSEs. You must show enthusiasm for the subject to show your commitment to the programme.

WHO WE WORK WITH

Our apprenticeship partners can change each year. Our current retail partners include:

KEY BENEFITS

· Get paid whilst you study: salaries can be up to £23,000

· Start your career whilst studying

· Employer funded programmes

· Graduate with a nationally recognised Apprenticeship Standard

· Work for a leading fashion or retail brand

· Increase your career prospects and future earnings

WHEN CAN I START?

Apprenticeship vacancies are like jobs and can start at any time of the year.

To register your interest and be the first to know when a new vacancy goes live, join our talent bank via the apprenticeship page on our website.

Scan the QR code to see our current vacancies

MEET THE TEAMS

Meet the FRA teams that will help you through your journey from applicant, to student, to graduate.

APPLICANT SERVICES

The Applicant Services team supports applicants right from the start of their FRA journey. We organise open days, help with application queries and are on hand to answer any questions around results day and enrolment.

REGISTRY

The Student Registry team is here to support learners through their journey right from their initial application, up until they enrol with us on their chosen course. We also administer the bursary process for 16 to 18-year-olds and those learners who have an approved Advanced Learner Loan.

CAREERS & PROGRESSION SERVICE

The Careers & Progression team are here to support students with their future career choices and progression. Through a combination of in-class group sessions, bookable 1:1s and resources accessed on our amazing careers platform, we offer targeted careers advice, education, information, advice and guidance to all FRA learners.

WELLBEING

The Wellbeing team are here to support students throughout their time at the FRA. Through coaching, counselling, drop-in sessions, learning support and safeguarding, we are here to help you.

INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT

The Industry Development department is responsible for enhancing your learning. We work with our 140+ industry partners to arrange masterclasses, set projects, feedback on presentations, mentoring and work placements to bring your learning to life.

PROGRESSION SERVICE CAREERS &

THE CAREERS & PROGRESSION SERVICE

It’s our goal to support all of our students with their progression and future career choices. Our dedicated Careers & Progression Service has a range of resources and support available to help you smoothly progress into your chosen career or further study, from personalised sessions to classroom support.

PERSONALISED SERVICES

Throughout the year, you can book 1:1 career appointments with the Career Coaches assigned to your course. We can support you with everything from preparing for your first steps into industry to choosing whether to go on to further study.

IN-CLASS SUPPORT

Our support includes in-class careers sessions and workshops. You’ll take part in lessons on topics from writing a professional CV to navigating UCAS applications.

YOU 2.0 ASSESSMENT BOOTCAMP

We collaborate with our industry partners to run skills-based Assessment Centres. Students will complete our unique assessment centre bootcamp, which is designed to give you the experience of recruitment assessment days for jobs or graduate programmes, and for university interviews.

INDUSTRY EXPERTS & CAREERS FAIRS

We know how important it is to build your network, so we organise undergraduate workshops and talks with industry. In September and May of every year we hold our Retail Careers Fairs to help you secure part-time employment around your studies so that you can put what you’re learning at the FRA into practice. Every May, we run our Head Office Careers Fair. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet a wide selection of brands who are actively recruiting and want to give you your start in the fashion retail industry.

CAREERS PLATFORM

Our Careers Platform is a fantastic online resource that helps you get your dream job. We post the latest employment and internship opportunities to help boost your CV.

ACCESS CV360

The Careers Platform gives you access to CV360. This specialised software scores your CV and gives you instant feedback, identifying any spelling or grammar errors and making suggestions for formatting and structure. It also highlights where your CV might not pass Applicant Tracking System software used by industry.

JOIN OUR ALUMNI

Our support doesn’t end after you’ve graduated! You’ll have access to the support of a careers coach for six months after graduation and be notified about the latest jobs and internships, as well as at least 12 months’ access to the platform and tools we use with our current students.

PATHWAY TO A CAREER

At the Fashion Retail Academy, we teach a wide range of specialist courses in fashion retail, including fashion buying and garment technology to merchandising for fashion and digital marketing. It’s our goal to make sure everyone can secure their dream career in the fashion industry.

ONLINE

DREAM CAREER

UNDERGRADUATE

APPRENTICESHIP

LEVEL 3

LEVEL 4

LEVEL 2

CAREERS IN FASHION

ACCOUNT PLANNER

BUYER

BRAND MANAGER

BUSINESS ANALYST

CONTENT CREATOR COPYWRITER

CUSTOMER INSIGHTS ANALYST DATA ANALYST

DIGITAL MERCHANDISER DESIGNER

GARMENT TECHNOLOGIST

MARKETING MANAGER

MERCHANDISER

STYLIST

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

STORE MANAGER

SUSTAINABILITY OFFICER

TEXTILE DESIGNER

TREND FORECASTER

PATTERN CUTTER

PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

PHOTOGRAPHER

UX /UI DESIGNER

VISUAL MERCHANDISER

Choose from one of our specialised Buying and Merchandising courses, including our Level 4 course, undergraduate degree, or the online course if you want to study around your current commitments

One of the most sought-after skill sets in the industry

The FRA has the only Level 4 Garment Technology course in the UK!

Huge industry demand for professional UX/UI designers

GRADUATE SNAPSHOT

Our graduates go on to work in a vast range of positions at some of the top fashion companies. Here’s where some of our recent graduates have gone on to work.

Teni Buying Assistant

Graziella Buying Admin Assistant

Annabel Merchandising Admin Assistant

John Visual Merchandiser

Ezra Started his own business

DIRECTOR & CO-FOUNDER

Jessica Online Production Assistant

Caitlin Digital PR Executive

Ines Buying Admin Assistant

Ella Visual Merchandiser

John Buying Admin Assistant

Brianna Visual Stylist

Lena Merchandising & Buying Admin Assistant

Matthew Buying Admin Assistant

Claudia Buying Admin Assistant

Freya Allocator

Mikey Self-employed Stylist

BUSINESS STARTER

“I’ve really enjoyed the course; I’ve loved how it’s the perfect combination between the business side to marketing and the creative side.”

Niamh BA (Hons) Marketing & Communications for Fashion

“I am extremely grateful for the doors the Fashion Retail Academy has opened for me, allowing me to progress my passion within the fashion industry.”

Hallie Level 3 Fashion Retail

“The Fashion Retail Academy sets you up for going straight into a job and you get loads of help including careers and wellbeing. It’s shown me an insight into an industry and what’s to come.”

Toni

Level 4 Fashion Buying

OUR STUDENT WELLBEING TEAM

OUR WELLBEING DEPARTMENT OFFERS FIVE KEY AREAS OF SUPPORT:

· Coaching

· Counselling

· Drop-in Sessions

· Learning Support

· Safeguarding

STUDENT WELLBEING

We take mental health very seriously, and our Wellbeing team are ready to support you every step of the way during your FRA journey. Whatever your challenge, our trained coaches will advise and support you, whether that is through 1:1 meetings, drop-in sessions or group advice on wider issues. They can help you with first day nerves, set targets for your educational goals and help with a wide range of more complex issues, both personal and academic.

FLEXIBLE APPROACH

Our team of counsellors have experience working with anxiety, depression, identity issues and more. We offer our students personalised mental health and wellbeing support, making sure we consider each student and their individual needs. Our flexible approach means we provide support in-person, and via phone call, video call and email.

LEARNING SUPPORT

We also have a team of Learning Support Assistants who help students with a variety of learning needs. Whether you have an official diagnosis or simply struggle in certain areas of your learning, you can access support that suits you.

SAFEGUARDING

Safeguarding is at the forefront of everything we do at the FRA, and we’re committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our students. Our staff receive regular updates on safeguarding issues within our community and are given frequent training in child and vulnerable adult protection procedures. With a strong culture of sharing concerns, our students know that whatever issues they face within college or at home, we will support them.

Scan the QR code for more information

PARENTS

We understand that securing a place on the right FE or undergraduate course for your child can be stressful, and that you want to guarantee that your child will be supported throughout their studies. You’re often not the first point of contact after your child leaves school, and we recognise this isn’t always a welcome change.

We want to keep you informed from the beginning of your child’s journey through to graduation, with several initiatives aimed at involving you. For students under 18, we have a yearly parents’ evening and a consultation service available by phone, email or in person.

TIMETABLE

We carefully plan our timetable to maximise the time students spend on campus and minimise time and money spent on travel. Our timetables are structured over two full days per week, from 9am to 5:30pm. On other days, students are set tasks to complete independently, either at home or in the study areas at the FRA campus. Many of our students also have part-time jobs.

ABSENCE POLICY

Morning lessons start at 9am. Tutors take a register at every lesson to confirm student attendance. If a student is not present and hasn’t informed us of their absence, the tutor will contact the student, and their parent or guardian, to determine the reason for their absence. If their attendance falls below 85%, we may take further action. Authorised absences are included in the overall attendance percentage. It’s important we are made aware in advance of any known and unavoidable absences.

SAFEGUARDING

We take the wellbeing and safety of our students extremely seriously. Alongside our safeguarding officers, we have several student safety policies, including:

· Establishing a safe learning environment in which all students can thrive

· Practising safe staff recruitment procedures by carrying out a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check on all staff, prior to starting employment

· Giving students information and awareness to help keep themselves safe

· Maintaining clear procedures to identify and report suspected cases of risk and abuse, making sure staff are made aware of these procedures and are appropriately trained to deal with them

· Providing appropriate support to students who are at risk

CAREERS SUPPORT

Our excellent Careers & Progression service provides all our students with personalised advice and support to help them land their dream jobs. Throughout the year, students can book 1:1 career appointments with our team of coaches. The Careers team also teach in class, running lessons on CV writing and interview skills.

OFSTED OUTSTANDING

Ofsted have rated us Outstanding, their highest grading level. They found six areas of excellence at the Fashion Retail Academy:

SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

Students develop the highest quality, industry-relevant skills

TEACHING INDUSTRY LINKS

Teaching is of the highest standard

Outstanding partnerships with employers and the fashion retail industry

OUTCOMES ACHIEVEMENTS

Progression into employment is exceptional

The achievement of learners is very high Adult learner achievement is exceptional

Scan the code for more information

DIGITAL PR EXECUTIVE AT RISE AT SEVEN CAITLIN OSMAN

I currently work as a Digital PR Executive at Rise at Seven, a Digital PR Agency with fantastic clients such as PLT, Lounge Underwear, Dermalogica and Revolution Beauty. I get to work on exciting big-scale campaigns and react to daily trends in the media for our clients. Every day is very different and life here is fast-paced and ever-changing, which I love!

I went into my degree at the FRA knowing that Rise at Seven is where I wanted to work post-studies and among the incredible industry talks hosted for students at the FRA, I was overjoyed when Rise at Seven visited during my studies, which gave me the opportunity to talk with them, ask questions and make myself known - something that I am sure helped me to land my role later on.

“My year at the Fashion Retail Academy has been the most beneficial and enjoyable year of my life! It has given me the confidence, knowledge and experience I need for a career in Visual Merchandising.”

Jade Level 4 Visual Merchandising

“The Fashion Retail Academy gave me a great opportunity to explore both buying and merchandising. The support from all the tutors in each class was incredible, and the course was very easy to manage around a part-time work schedule.”

Joseph Level 4 Fast Track Buying & Merchandising

“My time at the Fashion Retail Academy gave me a great deal of personal and professional growth. Resilience, subject knowledge and learning that I am more capable than I believed has helped me land my dream role!”

Annabel

BA (Hons) Buying & Merchandising

Completing my BA (Hons) Marketing & Communications For Fashion degree at the Fashion Retail Academy gave me all of the skills and knowledge that I needed to jump straight into the industry in a smooth and informed way. The FRA helped me to build many skills which are so valuable to me now in working life, even down to the simple things such as correctly formatting an email and presenting to crowds (which is something I wouldn’t have dared to do before).

If you study at the FRA, it is crucial that you take full advantage of the incredible assets on offer at this unique school, from the stocked-up library to the industry expert tutors and mentors. My mentor was from Vogue - what a dream come true to have an insight into life at Condé Nast!

I can confidently say that going to the FRA was one of the best decisions I ever made for my career. This is an unparalleled place of study for anyone who is serious about building a career in the fashion industry and I cannot even begin to imagine the opportunities I would have missed out on if I had studied elsewhere.

@fashionretailacademy

@fashionretailacademy

@FRALondon

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