NEW: Tailoring Academy Delivers Acknowledged Qualification in Bespoke Tailoring

Designed in collaboration with the Savile Row Bespoke Association and Creative Skillset, the new ABC Awards Level 5 Diploma in Bespoke Tailoring will open up an alternative route to the Savile Row apprenticeship.

The Tailoring Academy, founded in response to the lack of high standard tailoring training outside of London, is the only UK training centre accredited to deliver the stand-alone qualification, which is recognised by the UK Fashion and Textiles Association.

Bringing the highest level of tailoring training to the North of England, the Academy is based in Macclesfield, the old centre of the UK silk industry, with excellent train links to Manchester (25min), London Euston (1h 40min) and further afield.

In recognition of this unique opportunity, the CapitB Trust, which is funding training for the next generation of fashion and textiles industry talent, has committed to grant £2,500 to each student enrolled with the Academy.

There will be no essay-writing but hands-on practice, under the guidance of master tailor Brita Hirsch, who has 30 years of experience under her belt. Teaching within the environment of her bespoke tailoring house, she keeps the class size to only six students to ensure that each individual receives her full attention.

Students will acquire the entire skill set - Cutter AND Tailor - from pattern drafting to hand finishing bespoke garments, in a full-time course with a focus on the all-important practical skills. Launching in September 2018, the programme will deliver a total of 1,200 hours of tuition, running through to July the following year. Successful students will leave the Academy with an industry-acknowledged qualification, enabling them to seek employment or set up their own business, if they so wish.

The Academy is licensed - as the only UK provider - to deliver pattern construction using the renowned Müller & Sohn system, in English. Graduates will be in a position to draft bespoke garment patterns from scratch, individually for each customer. They will be issued with a separate M&S certificate upon completion of the course.

Those interested in more information can visit The Tailoring Academy website or get in touch directly via brita@tailoringacademy.co.uk