A physical and virtual portfolio of artwork demonstrating 2D and 3D skills and development; supported by a research file of in-depth information investigating a wide range of suitable progression opportunities with an associated commentary describing the pros and cons of the possible pathways in relation to your own career goals. (100%) [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4]

Working in the fashion sector requires good business acumen. To be successful you will need to develop an understanding of what it takes to be part of the professional industry, whether you are working independently or as part of a larger organisation. This module helps you work towards that goal, which may be a long-term or more immediate aim for you. By working through the potential of how fashion businesses function you will gain insights into your own personal goals and how to achieve them, whether that is through further study or directly into the industry.

By evaluating your experience and aspirations you will be able to plan a suitable programme for your chosen progression route in the fashion industry. You will undertake research to identify the criteria needed to reach your personal goals, and suggest skills development that will help meet those needs.

You will be expected to carry out a significant amount of research, which should include information from progression route areas and resources, e.g. University courses in relevant areas, business planning, careers planning and job opportunities, graduate schemes, entrepreneurship, support networks, financial advice and support, potential employers, Prince's Trust, Shell Livewire, financial advisors, Design Council, British Fashion Council etc.

You will plan a package of supporting evidence to enable you to follow your identified progression route, to include a physical portfolio of work, a virtual portfolio and relevant written documentation (e.g. CV, covering letter, completed application forms etc.) If you are considering an academic pathway, your evidence will show consultation with academic contacts, (e.g. university tutor, university students or recent graduates) and including visits to relevant open days.

Indicative:
Introduction to module
Careers progression seminars
Writing for a purpose (e.g. CV, covering letter)
Creating a virtual portfolio
Portfolio building workshops
Group portfolio critiques
Individual tutorials

Bedford D & Wilson, E. (2013) Study Skills for Foundation Degrees, 2nd Edition. Routledge.
Cottrell S. (2010) Skills for Success: The Personal Development Planning Handbook . Palgrave Macmillan Study Guides
Ciresi Barrett J. (2013) Designing Your Fashion Portfolio: From Concept to Presentation. Fairchild Books.
Faerm S. (2011) Design Your Fashion Portfolio. AC & Black.
Faerm S. (2010) Fashion Design Course: Principles, Practice and Technique: The Ultimate Guide for Aspiring Designers. Thames & Hudson.
Meadows T. (2009) How to Set Up and Run a Fashion Label. Laurence King Publishers.

Students will have access to studio space and college library and computer resources. University learning resources are available on campus at Stafford and Stoke-on-Trent, and online via the partner Need to Know pages of the university website.
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/courses_and_study/partnerships/current_students/email/index.jsp