Clothesmaking to progress your skills - inexperienced & returning learners

What prior knowledge, experience and qualifications will I need?
This course is aimed at learners who already have some basic Clothesmaking skills & who want to refresh or develop these further - it is not suitable for learners who have no previous sewing experience. Maths using addition, subtraction and multiplication are required on this course in order to make calculations for a variety of projects. English reading skills are essential to be able to interpret patterns and follow technical instructions. Learners are, therefore, expected to have at least Entry Level standard in Maths and English. Before enrolling, please contact the curriculum leader if you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the course for you

Learning Goals:
To understand & use a beginners or improvers level commercial garment pattern To sample and use a range of professional techniques. To understand how to use specialist tools and equipment correctly and safely To complete your garment to a good standard

What teaching methods will the tutor use?
The tutor will use a range of methods during the session, and these will include demonstration, discussion, Q&A and one to one guidance, where applicable

What assessment methods will the tutor use?
The course tutor will use a range of methods to assess progress on the course. These may include: Observation, completion of an Individual Learning Plan which will be updated regularly, evaluation of work samples, question and answer sessions

Will extra work be required outside the class times?
Extra work is not essential, but if you have access to a sewing machine, it will enable learners to practice techniques and progress their projects at a faster pace

What materials will I need for the course and how much will they cost?
You will need to have a commercial garment pattern (which may cost approx. £10-15), and enough fabric, 1-2 small reels of good quality polyester sewing thread & any trimmings to make the garment of your choice- these will vary in price according to the quantity and type of materials purchased. Ideally you will need to have a basic sewing kit to include dressmaking pins, needles, tape measure, stitch ripper & fabric cutting out scissors If you are buying these items from scratch they will cost approximately £25-30, but if you don’t have any or all of these it’s possible to use the classroom equipment at first. IMPORTANTLY, unless you already have these items, please don’t buy anything new until you have had confirmation that the course is definitely running

What do I need to bring to the first class?
As this is a very short course, it is essential to bring along your garment pattern & fabric to the first sessions, and any sewing kit items that you may already have. A pen, pencil and notebook as well as your phone/camera will also be useful to record ideas & technique demonstrations

Options when finished
The department offers a wide variety of fashion and textile courses at different levels. Information about progression courses is available through the tutor, the Curriculum Leader or the online Adult Learning Lewisham programme. There are also a range of courses at a higher level offered across London and the South East by Colleges, Community and Adult Education providers and through local craftspeople. For more information about higher level courses currently available, please speak to your tutor or the Curriculum Leader.

Additional information
Please note that using a commercially bought garment pattern is essential on this course - it does not cover either freehand cutting techniques, copying a garment or making your own pattern. There will be a scheduled 45-minute break during the course. The course fee includes a small contribution towards basic course sampling materials & sundries, and maintenance of tools & equipment- and it is not possible for learners to bring along their own sewing machines

For general enquiries and course availability information call 0208 314 3300. For more detailed information and guidance about the course: