If you’re passionate about fashion, style, and self-expression, this course is your pathway into the creative industries. At Big Creative Academy, you’ll explore fashion design, communication, and creative direction — learning to turn ideas into garments and concepts into visual stories while collaborating with others to bring your vision to life.
Course Overview
The year ends with a student-led fashion show, where you’ll showcase your designs to a live audience. You’ll also graduate with a digital portfolio, ready for your next step — university, freelance work, or launching your own brand.
What You'll Learn
- Fashion design process
- Textile skills and fabric experimentation
- Production techniques for fashion and clothing
- Creative and artistic direction for fashion collections
- Pattern cutting and garment construction
- Professional portfolio presentation and self-promotion
- Contextual influences and industry research
All students complete a work experience placement and take part in collaborative fashion projects.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwuXwgPqUF8
COURSE VIDEO & CAREER PATHS
Fashion Designer
Stylist or Art Director
Textile Designer
Fashion Marketer
print designer
University Music Production
Facilities
- Fully equipped fashion studio featuring industrial sewing machines, workstations, and tools for garment construction and finishing
- Comprehensive facilities for garment prototyping and pattern cutting, allowing you to experiment with design ideas and create professional samples
- Access to a wide range of creative resources including sketchbooks, specialist fabrics, materials, and digital design software for concept development
- Opportunities to attend workshops, guest lectures, and mentoring sessions led by industry professionals to help you gain real-world insight and experience
Timetable & Qualifications
- 3-day college week
- Fashion sessions and project work
- Weekly wellbeing sessions
- Careers and progression support
This course leads to a UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design & Communication. A Distinction grade is worth up to 168 UCAS tariff points, providing an excellent foundation for progression to university or a professional career in the creative industries.
ENTRY CRITERIA
- Level 1: 2 GCSEs at Grade 1
- Level 2: 3 GCSEs at Grade 3
- Level 3: 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English
- A strong interest in art, design or visual creativity
- Applicants must be under 19 on 1 September 2025, or under 25 with an EHCP
Big Creative Academy has been officially rated Outstanding by OFSTED, reflecting its commitment to educational excellence. Inspectors highlighted the dedication and passion of staff, the use of innovative and engaging teaching methods, and a holistic approach to student development that supports both academic and personal growth.
Student Work
Some of our fashion learners design and create their own garments, developing unique collections that showcase their personal style and creativity.
Alumni Stories
“I graduated in 2023 and went on to study Costume for Performance at the London College of Fashion, UAL. I’m now a student ambassador for LCF and also work in tailoring at Ralph Lauren.”
Owen, former Fashion Design student
Develop talent Transform Lives Create Careers
Learn about the workings of the fashion industry and be part of this international multi-billion pound industry with Fashion Design and Textiles at BCE.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is this course free?
Yes! The Fashion T Level is completely free for students under the age of 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP. All equipment, fabric, materials, and sketchbooks are provided at no cost. There are no hidden fees.
What will I actually learn on the course?
You’ll gain a rich mix of creative, technical, and professional skills tailored for the fashion industry. Here’s what you’ll cover:
- Design & Development – Research trends, sketch ideas, and develop creative concepts.
- Materials & Techniques – Experiment with fabrics, sewing methods, construction techniques, and industry-standard equipment.
- Fashion Business – Learn how the fashion industry works, from branding and marketing to sustainability and supply chains.
- Portfolio & Presentation – Develop your portfolio, showcase your work professionally, and prepare for interviews or further education.
- Professional Practice – Respond to real employer briefs, complete garment prototypes, and present to industry guests.
- Embedded English, Maths, and IT – Develop essential professional skills through project-based learning.
What kind of industry projects or briefs will I work on?
You’ll respond to live and simulated industry briefs. This includes designing for real brands like Urban Outfitters, working on sustainability-focused projects, and presenting your collections to external panels. You’ll also complete an employer-set project and a 45-day work placement tailored to your interests, helping you understand real-world expectations and roles.
What specialist equipment will I use?
You’ll use a wide range of professional tools including industrial sewing machines, pattern cutting tools, mannequins, and fashion production equipment. You’ll also be supplied with art and design materials and digital tools for design development.
What kind of careers can this course lead to?
Graduates can move into roles such as fashion designer, studio assistant, pattern cutter, fashion buyer, stylist, brand consultant, or content creator. You can also continue to higher education at fashion universities, design schools, or apprenticeships in fashion and textiles.
How is the course linked to the fashion industry?
The course includes direct engagement with industry professionals. BCA works with designers such as Penelope Tucker (Mona Halo), and students take part in talks, critiques, and mentoring sessions. Real industry input shapes the assignments, and employer feedback is integrated into grading and development.
How does the course support wellbeing?
Wellbeing is built into the course through dedicated classes, tutorial support, and access to pastoral care. You’ll have one-to-one time with tutors, support staff, and careers advisors. The learning environment is inclusive, supportive, and creativity-led.
What’s the weekly timetable like?
The course runs 4 days a week, typically including:
- Fashion studio work and theory lessons
- Group critiques and project work
- Embedded English, Maths and IT lessons through fashion-focused tasks
- Wellbeing and careers guidance
What are the entry requirements?
- 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English, Maths, and an arts subject
- A strong interest in fashion, design, or creativity
- Must be under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP
How does this course prepare me for the future?
You’ll graduate with a professional portfolio, industry experience, and a strong understanding of how fashion brands operate. You’ll gain confidence in presenting your work, responding to briefs, and developing your creative voice — whether you move on to employment, university, or your own brand.