Sewing with Commercial Pattern - Improvers - Part-time

Key details

Course area: Fashion and Textiles
Student type: Courses for 19+ students
Course type: Part-time Further Education course
Course level: Other
Start date: Tuesday 20th April 2027
End date: Tuesday 29th June 2027
Time: 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Economic Development Centre
Fees: £125.00
Course code: Parent course code:C060711 Child course code: Q060712

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Course introduction

Community courses are “first steps” for adults to learn new skills, develop confidence, meet others in welcoming classroom. The purpose of courses is to support students into further learning or employment (paid or voluntary).

This course is suitable for learners who already understand the basics of using a commercial pattern. The Improvers course helps learners develop more confidence and independence when choosing, reading and following patterns. Learners will work on a more detailed project while learning how to interpret instructions, improve accuracy and make small adjustments for a better fit.

By the end of the course, learners will be able to:

Select and use commercial patterns with more independence.
Understand more detailed pattern symbols, layout guides and construction steps.
Make simple size or fit adjustments (e.g., lengthening/shortening lines or easing).
Cut fabric with improved accuracy using more complex layouts.
Follow multi‑step instructions with growing confidence.
Use a wider range of seams and techniques required for improver‑level projects.
Assemble a garment or item with more structure or detail than in beginners.
Work more independently while asking for tutor guidance where needed.

You should attend regularly and arrive on time to make best progress on course.

You will complete a short diary weekly in class time, to record your progress and receive written tutor feedback.

You will use Microsoft Teams whilst on the course. Microsoft Teams is a free, safe online app used by Nottingham College for tutors to contact students.

Using Teams will also enable you to develop and feel confident using digital skills.

For more information on using Microsoft Teams and the induction process, please visit our Induction Information for Community Students page.

Course information

Qualification

Non-accredited

Entry Requirements

No formal qualifications or experience is required however you must be confidence in using a sewing machine.

You should attend regularly, be punctual and have a good standard of written and spoken English.

All students are required to complete a mandatory course workbook (Unique Learning Programme) each week, with the support of their course tutor.

Teaching & Assessment

Tutors will give regular verbal and written feedback. You will be required to complete a short workbook and encouraged to set your own personal targets as part of this course.

Progression

The course tutor can discuss appropriate opportunities for if you wish to further your learning in this subject area. Information will be made available to you about other course opportunities at Nottingham College. You will have the opportunity to access external Careers Guidance to aid your next steps.