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Key details

Course area
Fashion and Textiles
Student type
16 - 18 courses
Course type
Full-time Further Education course
Course level
Level 1
Start date
Tuesday 1st September 2026
Location
Adams Building Stoney Street, Nottingham, NG1 1NG
Course code
Parent course code:C056065 Child course code: Q056066
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Course introduction

The Level 1 Higher Diploma in Fashion is designed for students who have completed a standard Level 1 Fashion qualification and are looking to continue developing their creative skills while working towards achieving GCSEs in English and/or Maths.

This course provides a structured and supportive environment where you can refine your fashion knowledge, explore new techniques, and build the confidence needed for progression to Level 2. With a strong focus on practical work, you’ll take on more ambitious design briefs and strengthen your technical abilities.

Alongside your creative development, you’ll receive dedicated support in English and Maths, helping you gain the qualifications required for further education and employment.

This course is perfect if:

  • Have already completed a standard Level 1 Fashion course
  • Are passionate about fashion and want to continue improving your skills
  • Need to retake your GCSE English and/or Maths before moving on to Level 2
  • Want to build a stronger portfolio and gain more confidence in design, construction, and presentation
  • Are committed to a future in the creative industries and want to make steady, supported progress

You will learn: 

  • Garment construction and sewing skills
  • Fashion design development and responding to briefs
  • Textile experimentation and surface design
  • Traditional and digital fashion illustration
  • GCSE English and Maths (retake support and preparation)

You can expect:

  • A creative, hands-on learning experience focused on real-world fashion skills
  • Projects that explore fashion design, textile manipulation, and garment construction
  • Regular opportunities to develop and present your own ideas through sketchbooks and mood boards
  • Support with digital and traditional fashion illustration techniques
  • Timetabled English and Maths GCSE sessions, with one-to-one and group support
  • Feedback and guidance from experienced tutors with industry insight
  • A welcoming environment that supports both personal and academic development

Course information

1 year

College Certificate

You must have completed a Level 1 full-time course in Fashion or another creative subject.

Assessment is through practical coursework, projects, sketchbooks, and presentations. 

GCSEs are assessed via final written exams.

You could progress to a Level 2 Diploma in Fashion, Textiles, or Art and Design course.

Fashion (Level 2 BTEC Diploma) - Full-time

Fashion and Creative Study Skills (Level 2 Higher) - Full-time

Fashion and Textiles (Level 1 Certificate) - Full-time