GOLD AWARD COURSE - 16 UCAS POINTS
Fashion Foundation - Gold Award
This is a bespoke program for 16-19 yrs old, where they not only gain the practical skills and learn from professionals, but also earn 16 UCAS points, and an Arts Awards Gold Qualification.
The Fashion Foundation Gold Award is a dynamic, hands-on fashion education program tailored for young creatives aged 16–19. This three-level course provides a unique opportunity to gain practical skills in fashion design and garment construction, earn nationally recognised qualifications, and build a professional portfolio — all while working with experienced industry professionals.
The Fashion Foundation Gold Award is a dynamic, hands-on fashion education program tailored for young creatives aged 16–19. This three-level course provides a unique opportunity to gain practical skills in fashion design and garment construction, earn nationally recognised qualifications, and build a professional portfolio — all while working with experienced industry professionals.
Whether you are aiming for a career in fashion or preparing for further education, this course sets the foundation for future success.
Format
In Person Course
Starting date
7th/ 10th Oct
2026
Duration
1 yr Full-time/
2 yrs Part-Time
Price
£375
or
£650 per term
Choose Your Pathway
Full Time Weekdays/ Part Time Saturdays
1 year weekday programme for students aged 16+
The full-time Fashion Foundation is designed for students who are ready to make fashion and creative development a central part of their education.
Students will attend during the week for 1 day of lectures and 1 day of practical workshop each week. The programme is completed over 1 yr.
The full-time pathway offers students more regular studio access, greater time for technical development and the opportunity to complete an ambitious body of work within 1 year.
Age: 16+Duration: 1 year
Attendance: A days weekly
Start date: October 2026
Course fee: £650 per term. Payment plans available.
2 year Saturday programme for students aged 14+
The part-time Fashion Foundation is designed for younger students and those who want to develop their fashion practice alongside school, college, home education or other commitments.
Students attend on Saturdays only and complete the programme over 2 Creative years.
The extended format gives time to build their practical skills gradually, develop their creative confidence and produce a substantial portfolio without needing to attend during the week.
Age: 14+, Duration: 2 years
Attendance: Saturdays only
Start date: October 2026
Course fee: £375 per Term. Payment plans available
Course Structure
1
Term 1 (7th Oct - 19th Dec 2026)
Self Study Week 26th Oct -31st Oct
Introduction to Fashion & Technical Foundations
This foundational term introduces students to the world of fashion and design. You will explore core concepts, tools, and techniques essential to garment making and creative thinking.
You will learn to:
- Use essential professional fashion tools and equipment safely
- Develop core sewing/ construction skills and patterns drafting techniques
- Create samples, toiles and fitted garments.
- Explore design concepts and fashion sketching
-
Explore fashion research and design development.
- Complete a placement, workshop or training experience.
- Attend and review an arts or fashion event.
- Investigate and communicate a view on an arts issue.
2
Term 2 (6th Jan - 27th March 2027)
Self Study Week 15th - 20th Feb
Creative Leadership & Design Development
In this term, students begin to bring their ideas to life. With a stronger foundation, you will design, plan, and construct your own garments, and also your leadership project, applying everything learned in Level 1.
You will learn to:
You will learn to:
- Create and develop your original designs & concepts.
- Work with various fabrics and understand fit
- Apply advanced construction and finishing techniques
- Create technical drawings and design boards.
- Receive feedback through peer and tutor evaluation
- Plan and organise a creative leadership project.
- Manage time, tasks and responsibilities.
- Review your project and leadership development.
3
Term 3 (14th April - 3rd July)
Self Study Week 31st May - 5th June
Personal Collection & Portfolio Building
The final term focuses on professional readiness. Students develop their personal style and prepare for careers or higher education through portfolio creation and real-world industry exposure.
You will:
You will:
- Develop your own fashion concept and creative direction with a 4-look collection.
- Build a professional fashion portfolio. Include research, design development and technical work.
- Prepare a creative curriculum vitae and progression plan
- Learn about branding, fashion marketing, and presentation
- Draft patterns, construct and finish your final garments.
- Present your work through the final exhibition and showcase.
- Reflect on your development and future direction.
Who is this programme for?
The Fashion Foundation is suitable for young people aged 16 to 19 who have a serious interest in fashion, sewing, design, pattern cutting, textiles or the creative industries.
-
School and college leavers including home-educated young people.
-
Aspiring designers seeking a structured creative pathway in fashion design, costume, textiles, styling or fashion communication
-
Students preparing for university and need to strengthen their creative portfolio.
-
Neurodiverse learners who may benefit from a smaller and more supportive learning environment.
-
Students with some previous experience who want to develop to a more advanced level.
-
Young people who want access to mentorship and practical opportunities
-
Learners taking a creative development year and want a flexible, informal learning environment
Young People do not need to have completed a previous fashion qualification. Some experience of drawing, sewing, design or creative practice may be helpful, but it is not essential.
We are primarily looking for students who demonstrate enthusiasm, commitment, curiosity and a willingness to develop.
On the completion of this course, you would be equipped to either start exploring in the industry or proceed in higher education.
We are primarily looking for students who demonstrate enthusiasm, commitment, curiosity and a willingness to develop.
On the completion of this course, you would be equipped to either start exploring in the industry or proceed in higher education.
How To Apply
Applications are open until end of August.
Applicants will be invited to an informal conversation with a member of the course team within 2 weeks of application. This is not intended to be a formal or intimidating interview. It is an opportunity for us to learn more about the young person, answer questions and ensure that the chosen pathway is appropriate.
They may bring examples of creative work, but a formal portfolio is not required. This could be drawings, sketchbooks, sewing projects, textiles, digital designs, moodboards or any personal creative projects.
We would then come back with a decision and share information to register.
For questions about the programme, course suitability, learning support or the application process, please contact Kent School of Fashion.
Applicants will be invited to an informal conversation with a member of the course team within 2 weeks of application. This is not intended to be a formal or intimidating interview. It is an opportunity for us to learn more about the young person, answer questions and ensure that the chosen pathway is appropriate.
They may bring examples of creative work, but a formal portfolio is not required. This could be drawings, sketchbooks, sewing projects, textiles, digital designs, moodboards or any personal creative projects.
We would then come back with a decision and share information to register.
For questions about the programme, course suitability, learning support or the application process, please contact Kent School of Fashion.
Write your awesome label here.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply, and is previous experience required?
The full-time pathway is for ages 16+ and the part-time Saturday pathway is for ages 14+. No formal fashion qualification is required, and beginners with a genuine interest in fashion are welcome.
What is the difference between the full-time and part-time pathways?
The full-time pathway is completed over 1 year and requires attendance for a minimum of 2 weekdays each week.
The part-time pathway is completed over 2 years and runs on Saturdays only.
Both pathways follow the same wider programme, but at a different pace.
What qualification would I receive?
Students work towards the Gold Arts Award, a Level 3 qualification equivalent to 1 A Level and worth 16 UCAS tariff points.
Unit 1 is completed in Term 1, Unit 2 in Term 2, and Term 3 focuses on the personal collection and portfolio.
Unit 1 is completed in Term 1, Unit 2 in Term 2, and Term 3 focuses on the personal collection and portfolio.
Is the programme only about sewing?
No. The programme also includes fashion research, moodboards, design development, fashion illustration, contextual studies, creative careers, professional practice, leadership and portfolio building.
Are equipments and materials provided?
Sewing machines, overlockers and standard studio equipment are provided. Students must buy fabrics, trims and specialist materials for personal garments and final collection work.
What is the Address?
Kent School of Fashion
Unit 11, Miners Way Business Park
Aylesham
CT3 3AW
Are trips and industry placements included?
Yes. Trips and industry placements are an essential part of the Gold Arts Award.
We arrange group trips, with travel costs kept subsidised but paid by students.
We also support students in finding industry placements, while encouraging them to seek opportunities independently as part of learning how the industry works and developing professional confidence.
We arrange group trips, with travel costs kept subsidised but paid by students.
We also support students in finding industry placements, while encouraging them to seek opportunities independently as part of learning how the industry works and developing professional confidence.
Is there parking?
Yes! There is ample free parking available on-site. We kindly advise not to park directly outside the door; instead, feel free to use the road parking within the premises or the car park by Garrity House.
I have more questions.
If you have not found an answer to your questions here, we are available to provide you more information you may need.
Send a Text /WhatsApp Message on 07770 974940
Call on 07770 974940 / 01304 505086
Email hello@kentschooloffashion.com
Meet our Club team
Tolumi, Creative Head
Lisa, Assistant Tutor
Created with
