On 17 October 2025, at the Fashion Technology Academy (FTA) in Leicester, a milestone ceremony marked the completion of stitching courses (Levels 1–3) by a group of dedicated learners. Shockat Adam, Member of Parliament for Leicester South, attended and personally presented the certificates. His presence underscored the importance of skills-based training for the future of UK garment manufacturing. Leicester Made
Learners, many of whom overcame financial and personal challenges to complete their training, celebrated their achievement with pride. In a moving gesture of community spirit, they shared a homemade lunch after the ceremony — embodying resilience, dignity and hope. Leicester Made
Why It Matters for UK Manufacturing and ATMF Members
The ceremony at FTA isn’t just a graduation — it represents the strengthening of the UK’s skilled textile workforce, essential to maintaining competitive, ethical manufacturing domestically. The success of these stitching programmes signals a new generation of workers capable of meeting modern garment-production demands — from small-scale bespoke tailoring to efficient batch manufacturing.
With FTA operating alongside a live factory and studio, learners gain real-world exposure — a bridge between education and industrial practice. fcfta.com+1
For ATMF and its members, this highlights two significant benefits:
- Access to freshly trained, factory-ready stitching talent — ideal for supporting expansion or upgrading of production capabilities.
- Reinforced industry-led training standards — demonstrating that local training can deliver the skills, discipline and commitment required for British manufacturing quality.
Wider Context: Supporting British Manufacturing and Sustainable Growth
During his visit, Shockat Adam MP also participated in discussions with manufacturers and ATMF representatives about the future of UK garment production — notably in Leicester. Among the issues raised: the region’s proven manufacturing capacity, strong skills base, and the urgent need for consistent orders and retailer commitment. Leicester Made
A core message emerged: British factories are ready to deliver — provided there’s demand, investment, and strategic industry support. This aligns closely with ATMF’s mission to support sustainable, ethical, skilled UK textile manufacturing. Leicester Made+1
What ATMF / Member Organisations Can Do
- Engage with FTA graduates — consider them when scaling up operations or hiring new stitchers.
- Promote training-plus-factory models (like FTA’s) as a way to build long-term workforce resilience.
- Advocate to brands and retailers to recognise the value of UK-made garments — quality, turnaround, and ethical manufacturing.
- Support regional hubs like Leicester that combine skill, speed and commitment to rebuilding UK manufacturing capacity.