Course Overview
The Newtown Fashion and Textiles Academy has gone from strength to strength since its launch in December 2024 at the iconic Pryce-Jones Building in Newtown.
We are delighted to say that over 50 people have joined our Level 1 course and successfully achieved qualifications in areas such as Pattern Construction and Garment Construction, as well as qualifications in using industrial sewing machinery.
In 2026, we will launch our new Level 2 courses, offering more opportunities for you to become part of the thriving Fashion and Textiles community. The skills learned on this course will be perfect for anyone who has a beginner’s background in creating patterns and garments already and would like to develop those skills further.
This flexible course has been designed to be delivered on a part-time, unit-by-unit basis, with all units being taught over 2 days a week. You can choose to enrol on individual units and gain a Level 2 Unit Certificate, or you can enrol on a rolling programme of units throughout the year. The more units you complete through the year, the more qualified and experienced you become.
If you have been out of education for a while, be assured that the majority of the work you carry out is hands-on, practical, safe and fun. Whether you are already adept at creating your own garments and are looking for a little more training and support, or simply someone who would love to develop their skills in fashion and textiles a little further, but just doesn’t know where to go next, our expert lecturers are here to help you reach your goals.
As all our courses involve the use of Industrial Sewing machinery, all learners will be required to complete specialist training before beginning their main course in November. The training will run one day a week for 6 weeks, and, as well as becoming proficient in using these machines, you will also achieve two Level 1 qualifications at the same time.
No formal qualifications needed. However, some basic previous experience in pattern and garment making will be needed.
The skills learned on this course will be an excellent starting point for those who are hoping to progress on to a higher level of study or planning a career in the fashion and textiles industry.
Unit 1: Taking Measurements and Constructing Basic Blocks
Mondays and Thursdays for 3 weeks.
Assessment included
In this unit, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of pattern construction. They will explore the process of identifying the necessary measurements for creating basic blocks and develop the skills to draft these
blocks to specific measurements. Additionally, learners will acquire techniques for fitting, ensuring the final patterns have the best fit.
Unit 2: Producing Pattern Adaptions
Mondays and Thursdays for 6 weeks.
Assessment included.
In this unit, learners will focus more extensively on pattern adaptations, refining various types of patterns from basic blocks and integrating features such as linings and
interlinings. They will develop a portfolio to demonstrate their grasp of the core principles of pattern cutting.
Unit 3: Producing Complete Patterns
Mondays and Thursdays for 3 weeks.
Assessment included.
In this unit, learners will enhance their skills and knowledge in creating and presenting full-scale patterns. Building on the concepts and techniques acquired in the previous unit, they will produce full-scale patterns for a shirt, a skirt, and a pair of trousers. Additionally, they will focus on designing and developing a pattern to be used in the next unit.
Unit 4: Surface Patterning (Craft)
Mondays and Thursdays for 3 weeks.
Assessment included.
In this unit, learners will build upon the patterns created in the previous unit to craft either a blouse or a shirt featuring sleeves, a collar, button and buttonhole fastenings, as well as cuffs. Additionally, they will delve into current high street fashion trends, gathering inspiration to create a scrapbook showcasing various fashion designs and ideas.
There are no exams on this course, portfolio work will be submitted.
