Diplomas in Fashion Retail Level 4 Specification Fashion Retail These long five established diploma qualifications tradition of the Foundation Level 4 have Diploma been in designed Art & Design by experts is given a from new UAL lease and of the life Fashion by UAL Retail Awarding Academy. Body to They provide are intended a fresh, for flexible students and challenging with a focus approach and drive to to this progress pivotal qualification. into a career The in Fashion units Retailing. have been Fundamental designed with common open units assessment feature criteria in all of to the encourage diplomas but exploration, the five separate experimentation diploma and qualifications risk taking. Learning are available through so that it projects, is possible assignments, to select a presentations specific direction and group and critiques suitably will prepare enable students for to develop employment strong or undergraduate communication munic study. skills and support the transition from general to specialist art and design education.
Frame of reference Contents 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 Unit 1 Unit 2 Unit 3 1 Frame of reference Definition and characteristics Objectives Commentary on qualification structure Admissions Induction Planning the programme Assessment Accreditation and funding 2 Units and indicative content Common units Contextual studies for fashion retail Preparation and progression in fashion retail Individual negotiated fashion retail project 3 3 4 4 4 4 5 5 6 8 10 Unit 4 Unit 5 Unit 6 Unit 7 Unit 8 Unit 9 Unit 10 Unit 11 Unit 12 UAL Level 4 Diploma in Fashion Retail Consumer behaviour and customer service in fashion retail The fashion retail environment Fashion retail management UAL Level 4 Diploma in Garment Technology for Fashion Retail Garment technology production techniques for fashion retailing Quality assurance of materials for fashion retailing Design and cad technology for fashion retailing UAL Level 4 Diploma in Buying and Range Planning for Fashion Retail Fashion retail buying environment Fashion retail range planning & building Fashion retail buying principles 14 16 18 22 24 26 30 32 34 Unit 13 Unit 14 Unit 15 Unit 16 Unit 17 Unit 18 UAL Level 4 Diploma in Merchandising for Fashion Retail Fashion retail environment merchandising Fashion retail merchandising concepts Fashion retail merchandising systems and skills Level 4 Diploma for Visual Display and Branding for Fashion Retail Designing and installing window displays for fashion retail Fashion retail branding Fashion retail store concepts 38 40 42 46 48 50 1.1 Definition and characteristics The Level 4 Diplomas in Fashion Retail have been developed in response to an identified need for students to take qualifications in the fashion retail sector that explore the changing environment and influences on fashion retail business. These five qualifications put into context the structures and functions of retail business and include aspects of operational, financial and human resource management and organisational behaviour. They examine consumer behavioural patterns and how businesses respond with their marketing, branding and improved customer service to achieve efficiency and profitability. The course is delivered using a range of techniques to ensure students gain a practical and theoretical understanding of fashion retail business skills. It explores the changing environment and influences on fashion retail businesses and helps to understand the context, structure and functions of a fashion retail business from a management perspective to achieve competitiveness, efficiency and profitability. It includes operational, financial and strategic management of a fashion retail business, and an understanding of business finance, human resource management and organisational behaviour. The qualifications offer broad but in-depth knowledge and skills in preparation for work in the fashion retail sector and have been designed to balance practical and creative skills with theoretical studies. Work placement opportunities and industry-led projects are strong elements of studying for these qualifications and will allow students to gain a comprehensive view of fashion retail work opportunities, enabling them to enter this area of the industry. 1.2 Objectives The qualifications aim to provide students with an opportunity to explore the changing environment in the fashion retail sector and examine influences on fashion retail business. Completion of these qualifications will enable students to acquire the requisite skills, knowledge and understanding to progress to further education and employment within the fashion retail industry. The qualifications will: Provide an opportunity to develop students knowledge of fashion in relation to historic, cultural and contemporary influences and provide an overview of key concepts and debates pertaining to the fashion industry Enable students to develop skills with which they can make best use of appropriate progression and work opportunities Give students the opportunity to consolidate knowledge that has been acquired and to develop the professional practice in implementing and realising a fashion retail project Provide a range of academic and practical skills to understand how consumer behaviour influences choice and quantity of purchases in a fashion retail context and how businesses respond to increase sales Provide a coherent body of knowledge to enable students to explore the changing environment and influences on fashion retail businesses Help students understand the context and overall structure and functions of a fashion retail business from a management perspective to achieve competitiveness, efficiency and profitability Provide an understanding of the operational, financial knowledge and skills required to manage a fashion retail business. 2 3
Frame of reference Frame of reference 1.3 Commentary on qualification structure There are three common units in all five qualifications. Each qualification also includes three specialist units that relate to the chosen pathway. Each Diploma qualification will be delivered through six units normally over a one-year period. Units will vary in length, ranging between 10 and 30 credits, to ensure that the qualification provides both a stimulating and a supportive experience. Centres delivering the qualifications should design assignments that will provide the learning necessary to enable students to achieve the assessment The length and complexity of the assignments, and the specific activities with which students are asked to engage, are at the discretion of the centre. All assignments should reflect the importance of oral and written communication as integral to fashion retail activities. Course delivery uses a range of techniques to ensure students gain a practical and theoretical understanding of fashion retail business skills. It explores the changing environment and influences on fashion retail businesses and helps to understand the context, structure and functions of a fashion retail business from a management perspective to achieve competitiveness, efficiency and profitability. It includes operational, financial and strategic management of a fashion retail business, and an understanding of business finance, human resource management and organisational behaviour. Consumer behaviour is examined and how businesses respond with their marketing, branding and the improved customer service. Combined with work placement students are able to gain a comprehensive view of fashion retail work opportunities, enabling them to enter this area of the industry. 1.4 Admissions UAL Awarding Body expects centres to recruit with integrity and on the basis of students anticipated abilities to successfully complete the requirements of the individual unit(s) or the full qualification. Applicants to courses should provide suitable evidence of their prior learning and such as: related academic or work experience; a personal statement; a strong academic or other professional reference; or a combination of these factors. Whenever possible, applicants should be invited to attend a personal interview, to enable the interviewer(s) to assess their aptitude and potential to benefit from the course. Students should demonstrate knowledge of and enthusiasm for fashion retail, a potential to achieve a high standard in the strategic, functional and operational aspects of fashion retail. Entry is highly competitive and centres will set their own entry requirements that can be found on their own websites or in their internal course handbooks. 1.5 Induction Centres should provide students with an induction to ensure that: A course handbook and any other supporting material to facilitate effective learning is provided Timetable arrangements are clarified Academic tutorials systems are provided Learning support needs are identified and provided as appropriate Course structures and assessment requirements are explained for both internal assessment and external moderation Health and safety regulations and procedures are explained. 1.6 Planning the programme UAL Awarding Body supports innovative approaches to programme design and delivery within the broad context of the qualification aims and the learning outcomes and assessment The programme can therefore be delivered in a variety of ways. The qualification units have been written to support a range of delivery options. Delivery should be coherent and integrated, progressively focused upon the relationship between the development of students work and the choices they make. As the programme progresses, students must be able to demonstrate continuous in their chosen specialist area of fashion retail, paralleled by an increasing ability to critically reflect on their experiences in preparation for the next stages of their professional development. 1.7 Assessment will be designed to generate evidence that will support the development of portfolios that the students can be proud of and use when applying to other courses within the sector and for employment. To achieve a Pass in any unit, all assessment criteria must be met. External moderation will be focused on the final negotiated project carried out by students and it will also examine the process of internal assessment carried out by the centre. Ensuring that the systems and processes underpinning the internal assessment of the qualification are robust and rigorous is vital for maintaining the integrity and quality of the qualification. External assessment will always be carried out by an experienced and suitably qualified fashion retail specialist, and will always take the form of a visit to the centre. All qualification units will be Pass/Fail only, and will be internally assessed against the assessment criteria set out in the qualification specification. The assessment vehicle for the qualification will take the form of practical assignments, or work based projects. These assignments will be developed by each centre or set by industry for individual units or, more likely, for one or more units. Each assignment will be designed to ensure that students are given appropriate opportunities to produce evidence for the identified assessment 1.8 Accreditation and funding The qualifications are accredited to the national Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF). The qualification accreditation number or QAN for the UAL Level 4 Diploma in Fashion Retail (QCF ) is 600 / 9064 / 9. The qualification accreditation number or QAN for the UAL Level 4 Diploma for Buying and Range Planning for Fashion Retail (QCF ) is 600 / 9062 / 5. The qualification accreditation number or QAN for the UAL Level 4 Diploma for Visual Display and Branding in Fashion Retail (QCF ) is 600 / 9063 / 7. The qualification accreditation number or QAN for the UAL Level 4 Diploma in Garment Technology for Fashion Retail (QCF ) is 600 / 9065 / 0. The qualification accreditation number or QAN for the UAL Level 4 Diploma in Merchandising for Fashion Retail (QCF ) is 600 / 9066 / 2. Centres can find full details of Education Funding Agency (EFA) and Skills Funding Agency (SFA) funding arrangements for the qualification on the Hub learning aims search facility. 4 5
Common units Common units Unit 1 Contextual studies for fashion retail Unit aim: Develop students knowledge of fashion in relation to historic, cultural and contemporary influences. The unit will provide an overview of key concepts and debates pertaining to the fashion industry. In doing so a wide variety of ideas and fashion objects will be analysed and discussed. It aims to support the development of students research skills, academic writing, critical and analytical skills. 1. Understand key concepts and developments in fashion history. 2. Understand social, historic and, cultural factors that influence the fashion retail industry. 3. Understand the relationship between contextual studies and the fashion retail industry. 1.1 Critically evaluate ideas and images. 1.2 Debate key concepts and developments in fashion history. 2.1 Research the broader context of fashion design. 2.2 Discuss and explain the social and historical factors that shape and influence the fashion retail industry. 3.1 Critically deconstruct fashion artefacts. 3.2 Analyse the relationship between contextual concepts and fashion products. This unit is designed to provide a coherent body of knowledge which will enable students to develop their understanding of cultural and historical studies and their influence on art, design and fashion objects. The unit will help students to develop their own critical and analytical skills to support their specific studies. The learning for this unit should be delivered through a programme of workshops, lectures and seminars, as well as educational visits and a programme of self-directed learning including academic reading. Students should be encouraged to be open-minded in exploring and developing their ability to engage with art and design, not just as a practical subject, but also as part of theoretical debate. A range of activities might include: lectures, screenings and discussions, image analysis, research, reading and discussion, academic writing skills workshops, student presentations, textual analysis and educational visits. Visual communication skills Analytical skills Historical and cultural developments in fashion Key concepts in fashion history The social factors that shape and influence fashion objects Producing fashion Consuming fashion Fashion and representation Sustainability and ethics Diffusion Obsolescence Fashion and gender Globalization and ethnicity Post modern debates How to use research materials to support opinions How to communicate in a written academic format. support mechanisms put in place. through students assigned work against the unit outcomes and assessment Investigations into art, design and fashion or media objects recorded in a research file Analysis of cultural and historical studies debates in relation to art, design, fashion and the media in an essay Use of cultural and historical studies theory in a presentation which analyses shopping environments past, present and future. This list is not exhaustive and students should be encouraged to develop the most appropriate evidence to demonstrate their of the unit learning outcomes and assessment implement the programme equipped and updated art and design studios, workshops, lecture and seminar rooms, IT research sources. Centres must provide an appropriate level of access to dedicated general studios and an adequate flexible or open access provision in more specialist areas. 6 7
Common units Common units Unit 2 Preparation and progression in fashion retail Credit value: 10 Unit aim: Enable students to develop skills that will support appropriate progression and work opportunities. 1. Understand progression ambitions and opportunities appropriate to current level and subject career interests. 2. Be able to access progression opportunities for study or work. 3. Be able to use presentation skills to effectively communicate to appropriate audiences. 4. Be able to work effectively in a team to contribute to an effective workforce. 1.1 Critically assess progression opportunities within a chosen field and at an appropriate level. 2.1 Plan time and actions to access a range of progression opportunities. 2.2 Organise self and work to meet deadlines and targets. 3.1 Organise and effectively present themselves and their work to an appropriate audience. 3.2 Use a range of professional communication skills effectively. 4.1 Reflect and evaluate on the development of your team s critical thinking, professional communication and team skills. The learning for this unit should be delivered through a programme of workshops, lectures and seminars as well as educational visits and a programme of self-directed learning including academic reading. Students should be encouraged to be open-minded in exploring and developing their abilities to engage with art and design not just as a practical subject, but also as part of theoretical debate. Lectures Screenings and discussions Image analysis, research Reading and discussion Academic writing skills workshops Student presentations Textual analysis and educational visits. How to research various progression routes and work entry positions, recognise employment opportunities and assess personal suitability Job descriptions, personal specifications, how to build a career portfolio, present a professional CV and creative portfolio / examples of work How to create a career plan to achieve their chosen career goal, evaluate their progress and adapt the plan accordingly Business organisation including: how to develop interpersonal skills; the necessity to adapt to change at work; employment rights and responsibilities How to prepare for a job or progression interview and the selection process in various situations How to manage themselves in workplace situations e.g. time management, planning, expected behaviours, professional written and verbal communications How to work and integrate into a team and promote team motivation Cultural business practice differences. approach which supports the development of their particular students. The aims and support mechanisms put in place. through students portfolios of evidence against the unit An individual project within which a student is required to demonstrate their understanding of fashion retail recorded in: work books, note books, reports, digital format, presentations, reflective journals. This list is not exhaustive and students should be encouraged to develop the most appropriate evidence to demonstrate their of the unit learning implement the programme, equipped and updated art and design studios and workshops, lecture and seminar rooms, IT research sources. Centres must provide an appropriate level of access to dedicated general studios and an adequate flexible or open access provision in more specialist areas. 8 9
Common units Credit value: 30 Unit aim: Give students the opportunity to consolidate knowledge that has been acquired during the course, to develop their professional practice in implementing and realising a fashion retail project. Common units Unit 3 Individual negotiated fashion retail project 1. Be able to apply fashion retail specific knowledge and skills and implement a negotiated project to a professional standard. 2. Be able to communicate a negotiated project to the designated audience at a professional level. 3. Be able to demonstrate effective self-evaluation in terms of practical, written and oral communication skills. 4. Be able to present work in a variety of contexts and situations. 1.1 Generate ideas for developing a new innovation or business concept, researching national and global trends. 1.2 Research into the chosen market sector to inform a detailed written report to justify a concept for the current and future fashion retail market. 2.1 Use negotiation skills to confirm the ideas and project with a tutor and industry contact. 2.2 Use research to professionally communicate the business ideas. 2.3 Analyse and apply relevant transferable skills and techniques. 3.1 Critically assess business ideas and the feedback you have received from your tutor / employer / industry contact. 3.2 Develop a self -promotional package preparing for the world of work and your future career. 4.1 Present, to an appropriate audience, a detailed business plan for creating a successful business. This unit is designed to provide a coherent body of knowledge which will enable students to develop research skills, creative and analytical approaches, and the application of technical skills, to support work in the fashion retail industry and in particular their specific course and career interests within the industry. The learning for this unit will be delivered through a series of lectures, seminars and studio and work-based activities to introduce students to research methods and imaginative, analytical approaches to aspects of the fashion retail industry. Self -directed study will develop independent learning and collaborative work will reflect industry practices. Students will be encouraged to be openminded in exploring and developing ideas for original content based on rigorous, well evaluated research. How to work independently How to use their research, assimilation and critical thinking skills How to manage their work and present it in a professional format How to form ideas and create a viable business proposition How to use their negotiation skills. It Project management skills Professional presentation formats and skills. The learning of this unit will be delivered through a range of appropriately structured activities and assignments, designed to enhance students confidence and familiarity of research and production process. support mechanisms put in place. internally assessed and moderated and externally verified through students portfolios of evidence against the unit outcomes and assessment An individual project within which a student is required to demonstrate their understanding of fashion retail. This might be recorded in: work books, note books, reports, digital format, presentations, reflective journals. implement the programme, equipped classroom and IT research sources with adequate flexible or open access provision. 10 11
Course structure UAL Level 4 Diploma in Fashion Retail Course structure Part 1 Common units Preparation for progression in fashion retail 10 credits 50 GLH Individual negotiated fashion retail project 30 credits 150 GLH Part 2 Qualification specific units Consumer behaviour and customer service in fashion retail Fashion retail environment Contextual studies for fashion retail Fashion retail management The course is divided into two parts. Each part is made up of three units and each unit has a credit value. Units are the basic building blocks of the course and can be described as a self-contained package of learning defined in terms of learning time. This includes taught time, independent study, access to resources and assessment. There are specified learning criteria for each unit. In order to achieve the Diploma student must achieve a total of 120 credits by completing six units, 1 credit being equivalent to 10 notional learning hours. The qualification comprises two parts each containing three units totalling 60 credits. Part 1 contains three units common to all level 4 Fashion Retail qualifications and Part 2 contains three specialists units relevant to the specific diploma being undertaken. Credit is awarded for the of the learning outcomes associated with a particular unit. It is awarded at the point when that learning is assessed. The balance of how learning time is divided between taught time and independent study will differ according to the particular focus of the unit and related level. 12 13
Fashion retail Fashion retail Unit 4 Consumer behaviour and customer service in fashion retail Unit aim: Provide students with a range of academic and practical skills to understand how consumer behaviour influences choice and quantity of purchases in a fashion retail context and how businesses respond to increase sales. Topics include: consumer purchase decision behaviour, marketing, branding and the importance of excellent customer service in maintaining brand loyalty. 1. Understand the key concepts of the consumer behaviour process. 2. Understand key marketing and branding principles and benefits to fashion retailing. 3. Understand quality assurance processes for the effective customer service to ensure loyalty and the customer journey. 1.1 Analyse the main components of consumer behaviour. 1.2 Critically evaluate the impact of a range of variables influencing consumer behaviour. 2.1 Compare and contrast marketing strategies and issues faced by fashion retailers. 2.2 Analyse how the key components of branding are applied to a store brand and retail culture. 3.1 Critically evaluate customer service feedback methods used in fashion retail businesses. This unit is designed to provide a coherent body of knowledge which will enable students to develop research skills, creative and analytical approaches, and the application of technical skills to support work in the fashion industry. The learning for this unit will be delivered through a series of lectures, seminars and studio and work-based activities designed to introduce students to research methods and imaginative, analytical approaches to improving sales in the fashion retail industry. Lectures, seminars and practical workshop sessions will develop skills in understanding consumer behaviour, marketing, branding and customer service and support. Self-directed study will develop independent learning and collaborative work will reflect industry practices. Students will be encouraged to be open-minded in exploring and developing ideas for original content based on rigorous, well evaluated research. The key concepts of the consumer behaviour process The key marketing principles in fashion retailing The key components, attributes and benefits of branding and retail brand culture How to assess the quality of customer service offered to improve customer loyalty and the customer journey. Topics include: Consumer behaviour: how individuals process information and choose products or services; consumer responses to marketing situations and strategies; buying behaviour of both individuals and organisations Marketing in the context of the fashion retail industry including: developing a marketing concept and marketing mix; market segmentation, targeting and positioning; sales forecasting and pricing; ethical and social issues; consumer trends; brand positioning in light of knowledge and understanding consumer psychology; defining the brand; brand protection (counterfeiting threats); brand extensions and strategic brand alliances in fashion; critical factors affecting selling and the evaluation of performance; and the role of store manager in boosting sales Customer service including: defining excellent customer service; collection and analysis of customer service performance information and identification of appropriate management actions to promote improvement; developing consumer loyalty; and the customer experience and journey. The learning of this unit will be delivered through a range of appropriately structured activities and assignments to enhance students confidence and familiarity within the research and production process. support mechanisms put in place. through students assigned work against the unit outcomes and assessment An individual project within which a student is required to demonstrate their understanding of consumer behaviours and how businesses respond in the fashion retail industry, recorded in: work books, note books, reports, digital format, presentations, reflective journals. implement the programme equipped classroom and IT facilities, information and research sources, and an adequate flexible or open access provision. 14 15
Fashion retail Fashion retail Unit 5 The fashion retail environment Unit aim: Provide students with a coherent body of knowledge to enable them to explore the changing environment and influences on fashion retail businesses. It will also help you understand the context and overall structure and functions of a fashion retail business from a management perspective to achieve competitiveness, efficiency and profitability. 1. Be able to research, evaluate and interpret information and ideas within the context of the fashion retail industry. 2. Be able to examine the planning, trading processes and functions of head office in fashion retail contexts. 3. Understand how to maximise space and offer a variety of goods and services in either physical or virtual stores to effectively enhance sales. 1.1 Critically compare and contrast various fashion retail company structures and the roles and responsibilities of their key departments. 1.2 Critically appraise business considerations for fashion retailers to be socially and environmentally responsible organisations. 2.1 Evaluate a range of techniques and strategies to develop and improve supplier performance within the supply chain. 2.2 Analyse how buying and merchandising roles affect different types of fashion retail organisation. 3.1 Explain how visual merchandising principles and presentation methods are used to generate increased sales in store and online. 3.2 Critically evaluate how a variety of services in store, can strengthen the brand and profitability. This unit, is designed to provide a coherent body of knowledge which will enable students to develop research skills, analytical approaches and academic writing skills to support their understanding of the fashion retail industry. The learning for this unit should be delivered through a series of lectures, seminars, discussions and work based activities. Self-directed study will develop independent learning and academic writing. Students should be encouraged to be open-minded in exploring and developing ideas for original content based on rigorous, well evaluated research. Students should: Understand the nature and roles of the fashion retail sector and its position in UK and global industry Outline the types of fashion retail businesses and their customer base Analyse and discuss the main external and internal influences on fashion retail business Explain retail strategies and locations and environmental responsibilities Understand how to monitor the supply chain Understand the buying and merchandising functions Understand how sales can be enhanced through visual merchandising Understand how to safely install and manage window and in-store displays Understand how to diversify products and services offered in a fashion retail business. Topics include: Retailing sector Fashion retail within the general UK and global economy Fashion retail market sectors, models and formats Historical growth of shopping (bricks and clicks) Demographics affecting the fashion retail sector Retail strategies Technology Environmentalism and corporate social responsibility. Processes: Manufacture, supply chain, related industries, market places Functions of a supply chain Logistics of moving goods and services from supplier to customer Movement of raw materials to the factory for construction and then to distribution centres and shops Control of ordering and delivery of goods, managing materials, stock and storage Analysis of and recommendations to improve the supply chain s performance Risk assessment and management, project management Sourcing strategies (domestic /international, single/ multiple) Partnerships and outsourcing Delivery schedules, including: forecasting; range planning; merchandise planning; branch planning; retail analysis; key performance indicators; product profiles, continuity and seasonal merchandise; range building; design elements and process; garment technology; role of the fashion buyer and merchandiser; fashion marketing; and fashion retailer trends Store environment elements and objectives, including: store image; store planning; space planning and allocation; store circulation and flow; merchandise fixtures and fittings; visual merchandise techniques; store design including interiors, exteriors, lighting, atmospherics, music and scent; visual communications; signage; logos and graphics; and CAD visual merchandising packages Types of selling and the selling process. The learning of this unit will be delivered through a range of appropriately structured activities and assignments to enhance students confidence and familiarity within the research and production process. support mechanisms put in place. through students assigned work against the unit outcomes and assessment An individual project within which a student is required to demonstrate their understanding of the fashion retail environment recorded in; note books, reports and digital format. This list is not exhaustive and students should be encouraged to develop the most appropriate evidence to demonstrate their of the unit learning implement the programme, equipped classroom and IT research sources, together with an adequate flexible or open access provision. 16 17
Fashion retail Fashion retail Unit 6 Fashion retail management Unit aim: Provide an understanding of the operational, financial knowledge and skills required to manage a fashion retail business. It will introduce an awareness of specific commercial challenges relating to the industry and develop an understanding of business finance. It will include analysis of data to inform business choices and will develop competence in the areas of human resource management and organisational behaviour. 1. Be able to identify and apply management tools and concepts. 2. Understand the effective management of human resources. 3. Understand how to manage the operations and processes of a fashion retail business. 4. Understand retail strategy and the management role. 1.1 Explain and evaluate a range of management tools relevant to the fashion retail industry. 1.2 Reflect on and review own professional development. 2.1 Evaluate the effective deployment, development and evaluation of human resources to optimise performance in a fashion retail organisation. 3.1 Evaluate the impact of new technologies on organisational change in a fashion retail organisation. 4.1 Explain and evaluate fashion retail strategies for business growth. This unit is designed to provide a coherent body of knowledge which will enable students to develop research skills, creative and analytical approaches, and the application of technical skills to support work in the fashion retail industry. The learning for this unit will be delivered through a series of lectures, seminars and workbased activities to introduce students to research methods and imaginative, analytical approaches to the business and management aspects of the fashion retail industry. Lectures, seminars and workshop sessions will develop skills in fashion retail management and support the learners understanding. Self-directed study will develop independent learning and collaborative work will reflect industry practices. Students will be encouraged to be openminded in exploring and developing ideas for original content based on rigorous, well evaluated research. The roles and responsibilities of various functions in a fashion retail business Key management tools and concepts Key store operations management tasks How a professional and flexible work ethos is required at work The inter-relationships between organisational roles, cultures and resource allocation in fashion retail businesses Financial principles and their application. Topics include: Managing a retail store using retail store information systems Developing people in retail organisations Role and responsibilities of store managers in various settings Procurement, including collaborative planning, forecasting and replenishment practices Stock location and loss prevention Retail operations including organisation mission, the principles and practices of retail operations and analysis of key performance indicators Key elements of day-to-day store operations and focuses on issues associated with managing people and process. You will investigate: Planning, monitoring and adjusting staffing levels and schedules The selection of personnel, their development as a team or as individuals Implementation of operational plans and continuous improvements to operations Management: The formation and implementation of business strategy within a fashion business context. organisational purpose, strategic alternatives and strategy development Understanding environmental factors and competitive influences on business Financial profit and loss account Product costing and pricing Stock valuation and control Profit volume and cash management. The learning of this unit will be delivered through a range of appropriately structured activities and assignments to enhance students confidence and familiarity within the research and production process. learners. The aims and support mechanisms put in place. through students assigned work against the unit outcomes and assessment An individual project within which a student is required to demonstrate their understanding of fashion retail management, recorded in: work books, note books, reports, digital format, presentations, reflective journals. implement the programme, equipped classroom and IT facilities, information and research sources, and an adequate flexible or open access provision. 18 19
Course structure UAL Level 4 Diploma in Garment Technology for Fashion Retail 1.3 Course structure Part 1 Common units Preparation for progression in fashion retail 10 credits 50 GLH Individual negotiated fashion retail project 30 credits 150 GLH Contextual studies for fashion retail Part 2 Qualification specific units Garment technology production techniques for fashion retailing Quality assurance of materials for fashion retailing Design and CAD technology for fashion retailing The course is divided into two parts. Each part is made up of three units and each unit has a credit value. Units are the basic building blocks of the course and can be described as a self-contained package of learning defined in terms of learning time. This includes taught time, independent study, access to resources and assessment. There are specified learning criteria for each unit. In order to achieve the Diploma student must achieve a total of 120 credits by completing six units, 1 credit being equivalent to 10 notional learning hours. The qualification comprises two parts each containing three units totalling 60 credits. Part 1 contains three units common to all level 4 Fashion Retail qualifications and Part 2 contains three specialists units relevant to the specific diploma being undertaken. Credit is awarded for the of the learning outcomes associated with a particular unit. It is awarded at the point when that learning is assessed. The balance of how learning time is divided between taught time and independent study will differ according to the particular focus of the unit and related level. 20 21
Garment technology Garment technology Unit 7 Garment technology production techniques for fashion retailing Unit aim: Present a broad overview of the production techniques used by garment technologists within the fashion retailing industry. The unit explores the close relationship with the designer, buyer and manufacturer and relates to wider head office operations in a fashion retail company. Students will understand the dynamics in which a garment technologist operates and how to research and examine specialist production techniques, fit requirements and how garments are amended to accommodate the retailer s and consumer s expectations. Students will also explore construction techniques, production processes and how technical departments work with factories in achieving mass production for the commercial retailing industry. 1. Be able to recognise different production techniques. 2. Be able to monitor and record product production stages. 3. Understand quality assurance practice and sealing procedures. 4. Understand the importance of relationships with factories within the critical path. 1.1 Analyse product properties. 1.2 Critically evaluate appropriate alteration techniques. 2.1 Analyse and evaluate the production process. 3.1 Evaluate quality assurance principles and relevant documentation. 3.2 Analyse product requirements and potential problems. 4.1 Analyse team relationships and negotiation techniques. 4.2 Evaluate different factories production limitations. This unit is designed to provide a coherent body of knowledge which will enable students to develop interdisciplinary, creative and a professional approach to decision making. The learning for this unit should be delivered through a programme of workshops, lectures and seminars as well as a programme of self-directed study. Students should be encouraged to be open-minded in exploring and developing creative, analytical and commercial skills. On successful completion, students should be able to reflectively evaluate your own learning and personal planning processes. A range of activities might include: Primary and secondary research including: analysis of fashion retail organisations through comparative shopping, industry related reports, and fashion related websites Visit to a trade show to develop awareness of new production techniques used to improve productivity Workshops and industry presentations and active involvement with different fashion retail teams during work placement. How to produce sampling, toile evaluating fitting and construction techniques to support the transition into mass production The role and responsibilities of the garment technologist in the fashion retail businesses The relationship the garment technologist has with other members of the development team e.g. designer, buyer, merchandiser, production team and external teams, supplier, and manufacture testing lab How to use alteration and fit techniques when analysing production techniques in order to adhere to quality assurance procedures Specialist terminology used in sampling and mass production The importance of the critical path and negotiation techniques when working with designers, buyers, merchandisers and factories How to recognise the relevant documentation of factories to ensure their suitability. How to use and evaluate the technical abilities of manufacturing techniques against product requirements. support mechanisms put in place. through students portfolios of evidence against the unit The assessment activities for this unit may be combined with those for Units 8 and 9. Records of research, analysis and evaluation presented in professionally presented reports, creative boards, and digital material or reflective journals Analysis of research use of presented in professionally presented reports, creative boards, and digital material or reflective journals. implement the programme, equipped workshops, IT research sources. Centres must provide an adequate flexible or open access provision in more specialist areas. 22 23
Garment technology Garment technology Unit 8 Quality assurance of materials for fashion retailing Unit aim: Present a broad overview of the quality assurance practices within the garment technology sector for fashion retailing. The unit explores the close relationship between production and materials for mass production. Students will understand the importance of quality assurance through the appropriate selection of material. Develop research and analytical skills and analyse external factors which influence manufacturing decisions to minimise wastage. Students will also explore material testing techniques, production processes and how technical departments work with factories to enable samples to undergo mass production for the commercial retailing industry. 1. Understand the characteristics of materials. 2. Be able to recognise the importance of material against product requirements. 3. Be able to recognise the importance of testing materials. 4. Understand the importance of product trials. 1.1 Analyse characteristics of different materials. 1.2 Critically evaluate new technological developments. 2.1 Identify and analyse potential problems with materials against various products. 3.1 Analyse material & colour testing procedures. 3.2 Critically evaluate national and international testing regulations. 4.1 Critically evaluate the importance of product trials. 4.2 Analyse defects and advise on corrective measures. This unit is designed to provide a coherent body of knowledge which will enable students to develop interdisciplinary, creative and a professional approach to decision making. The learning for this unit should be delivered through a programme of workshops, lectures and seminars as well as a programme of self-directed study. Students should be encouraged to be open minded in exploring and developing creative, analytical and commercial skills. On successful completion students should be able to reflectively evaluate their own learning and personal planning processes. A range of activities might include: Primary and secondary research including: analysis of fashion retail organisations through comparative shopping, industry related reports, and fashion related websites Visit to a trade show to develop awareness of new innovative fabrics. Workshops and industry presentations and active involvement with different fashion retail teams during work placement. How to identify the suitability of materials for different fashion retail businesses e.g. own label, high street chain, department store, branded buying, independent store, boutiques, and concessions Specialist terminology used in quality assurance The role and responsibilities of the quality assurance department in different fashion retail businesses The role of the quality assurance team in supporting other members of the development team How to compare different material properties and the importance of new technological developments to enhance the quality and durability of a product The importance of lab test and legislation within the textiles industry to identifying the suitability of fabric finishes and colour management The importance of wearer trials to analyse performance, fit, price and wash care The implications of defects in products and the importance of wearer trail report information for a fashion retailing business. support mechanisms put in place. through students portfolios of evidence against the unit The assessment activities for this unit may be combined with those for units 7 and 9. Records of research, analysis and evaluation presented in professionally presented reports, creative boards, and digital material or reflective journals Analysis of research use of presented in professionally presented reports, creative boards, and digital material or reflective journals. This list is not exhaustive and students should be encouraged to develop the most appropriate evidence to demonstrate their of the unit learning implement the programme equipped workshops, IT research sources. Centres must provide an adequate flexible or open access provision in more specialist areas. 24 25
Garment technology Garment technology Unit 9 Design and CAD technology for fashion retailing Unit aim: Present a broad overview of how design and CAD processes are used by garment technologists within the fashion industry. The unit explores the close relationship between specification drawings, initial samples and the alterations required to ensure the final product is fit for purpose. Students will understand the importance of commercial design specifications and how CAD technology is used to enhance productivity. External factors will be explored such as the importance of trend forecasting and customer profiling. Students will examine how to work from design briefs to show commercial design awareness, and understand how CAD has revolutionised the design process. 1. Be able to recognise design processes for retail strategy. 2. Understand design principles and processes. 3. Be able to demonstrate CAD applications. 4. Understand the importance of the role of the garment technologist within the critical pathway. 1.1 Analyse customer profiling for fashion retailing. 1.2 Critically evaluate how designs translate into store requirements. 2.1 Analyse the influence of trends forecasting for design. 2.2 Analyse how samples are altered for manufacturing. 3.1 Effectively produce specifications using CAD application. 3.2 Critically evaluate product amendments. 4.1 Analyse the critical pathway from design to production. This unit is designed to provide a coherent body of knowledge which will enable students to develop interdisciplinary, creative and a professional approach to decision making. The learning for this unit should be delivered through a programme of workshops, lectures and seminars as well as a programme of self-directed study. Students should be encouraged to be open-minded in exploring and developing creative, analytical and commercial skills. On successful completion students should be able to reflectively evaluate their own learning and personal planning processes. A range of activities might include: Primary and secondary research including: analysis of fashion retail organisations through comparative shopping, industry related reports, and fashion related websites Visit to a trade show to develop awareness of new technological developments in fashion retailing Workshops and industry presentations and active involvement with different fashion retail teams during work placement. The impact of fashion industry reports, fashion week and best sellers on design direction The role and responsibilities of design and CAD specialists The theory and importance of customer profiling on design realisations How to create commercial designs in response to consumer expectation taking into consideration fit and quality Specialist terminology used in design direction The critical path from design to production for seasonal change in fashion retailing How to use CAD applications to support design using digital images, scans and drawings. In addition to CAD use for production focusing on product amendments and measurements The implications of initial samples on mass production taking into consideration cost and quality. support mechanisms put in place. through students portfolios of evidence against the unit The assessment activities for this unit may be combined with those for units 7 and 8. Records of research, analysis and evaluation presented in professionally presented reports, creative boards and digital material or reflective journals Analysis of research use of presented in professionally presented reports, creative boards, and digital material or reflective journals. This list is not exhaustive and students should be encouraged to develop the most appropriate evidence to demonstrate their of the unit learning implement the programme equipped workshops, IT research sources. Centres must provide an adequate flexible or open access provision in more specialist areas. 26 27