Fashion-Enter Limited (FEL) is celebrating outstanding apprenticeship achievements while expanding its training provision to help address growing skills shortages across the UK fashion and textiles industry.
The independent learning provider has achieved a 100% distinction rate for six apprentices from leading retailer Next, who successfully completed the Level 4 Product Technologist Apprenticeship Standard. The achievement reflects Fashion-Enter’s commitment to developing highly skilled technical professionals while strengthening the future workforce for the fashion sector.
At the same time, Fashion-Enter is increasing its focus on the Level 2 Sewing Machinist Apprenticeship, responding to growing employer demand for skilled machinists in both sample making and bulk garment production.
Supporting the future of UK fashion manufacturing
With campuses in Haringey, Islington and Leicester, Fashion-Enter delivers apprenticeship programmes through its renowned Fashion Technology Academy, where learners gain practical experience within the organisation’s award-winning ethical manufacturing facility.
Recently recognised with the King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development, Fashion-Enter embeds sustainable manufacturing principles throughout its apprenticeship programmes, ensuring learners develop both technical expertise and an understanding of responsible production.
Having delivered apprenticeships for more than 16 years, the organisation works with a wide range of employers, from global fashion brands to SMEs and start-up businesses, providing industry-led training designed to meet current workforce needs.
Responding to increasing employer demand
As demand for skilled manufacturing professionals continues to grow, Fashion-Enter is placing renewed emphasis on its Level 2 Sewing Machinist Apprenticeship, helping employers recruit and develop the next generation of skilled machinists.
Jenny Holloway, CEO of Fashion-Enter, said:
“In the last six months we have seen a rise in demand for machinists in both sample making and bulk production and we really believe that the Level 2 standard is a great fit for industry today.
We are proud of our achievements in skills provision for the industry and use the backdrop of our ethical factory based in Haringey as a solid learning ground for apprentices.
We are particularly proud of our contract with Next whereby their six apprentices all gained a distinction at the Level 4 Product Technologist Standard. We are absolutely thrilled for the apprentices and wish them every success in the future.”
Fashion-Enter operates its apprenticeship programmes on a flexible roll-on, roll-off model, allowing employers to recruit throughout the year. The organisation is keen to support established manufacturers, new business start-ups and micro businesses looking to employ sewing machinists.
Tailored support for employers and apprentices
Lan Leeder, Head of Education at Fashion-Enter, highlighted the organisation’s collaborative approach to apprenticeship delivery.
“We are here to fully support both the employer and the apprentice. We work openly and transparently to ensure every apprentice develops the right skills to meet the employer’s needs. We take great pride in our recruitment strategy to ensure successful outcomes for everyone involved.”
Level 2 Sewing Machinist Apprenticeship
The Level 2 Sewing Machinist Apprenticeship equips learners with the practical skills required for modern garment manufacturing, including:
- Organising and maintaining an efficient workstation.
- Operating specialist industrial sewing machinery.
- Working safely in line with health and safety regulations.
- Sewing a wide range of fabrics, threads and trimmings.
- Applying industrial sewing techniques and production methods.
- Producing garments that meet quality standards, production targets and deadlines.
- Following technical specifications and production instructions.
- Monitoring workflow and carrying out routine machine maintenance.
Find out more
Fashion-Enter is currently hosting open days throughout July and August 2026 for prospective apprentices and employers interested in learning more about its apprenticeship programmes.
For further information about apprenticeship opportunities or the Level 2 Sewing Machinist Apprenticeship, contact [email protected].