Fashion and textiles - level 2 apprenticeship framework
This framework sets out the standards and criteria you must meet to complete the apprenticeship programme and receive your apprenticeship certificate for level two fashion and textiles. This is the only level 2 training in this skill acceptable for apprenticeshipsni funding.
About the framework
Aims and objectives for this framework:
• to improve the perception of the sector to young people and parents.
• assist sector employers to address an ageing workforce;
• provide an entry route for underrepresented groups.
• allow employers to add value to their organisations by bringing in new staff to utilise existing techniques and technologies;
• provide a stream of employees equipped with the manufacturing skills required for the future.
• equip new entrants with the transferable soft and technical skills;
• provide flexible routes into a wide variety of job roles in the industry, and into higher level training and education.
• support and promote long term careers and opportunities.
• promote and uplift the specific skills requirements for example recognise the specific/niche level skills of the industry.
Mandatory outcomes
Achievement of a level 2 apprenticeship in fashion and textiles will be assessed by verification through the appropriate awarding body.
You must complete both a competence-based and knowledge-based qualification, along with the mandatory essential skills qualifications.
Mandatory essential skills
To successfully complete the apprenticeship, apprentices must achieve the following essential skills qualifications as part of the apprenticeship, or already hold a recognised equivalent:
- application of number – level 1
- communication – level 1
- information and communication technology – level 1
However, any qualifications you already have are assessed against the framework requirements and may result in an exemption from the above.
Competency and knowledge qualifications
Apprentices need to complete both a competency-based and a knowledge-based qualification, from the lists below.
Pathway 1 - textiles
Competence-based qualification:
Knowledge-based qualification:
Pathway 2 - sewn products
Competence-based qualification:
Knowledge-based qualification:
Eligibility and entry to the programme
You must be a new employee, or an existing employee taking on a new role to take part in the programme. There are no formal entry requirements for learners undertaking this apprenticeship, however employers may apply their own criteria at recruitment. Employers and training contractors must ensure that learners have the potential and opportunity to gain the apprenticeship successfully.
See also: DfE operational requirements
Duration
Apprenticeship duration can vary and will be agreed between the apprentice, training contractor and employer.
Related knowledge
For this framework, the participant is required to complete a suitable employer rights and responsibilities (ERR) workbook. Framework certification is issued on confirmation from training suppliers that the ERR has been completed.
Responsibilities
It is the responsibility of the training contractor/college to ensure that all components of this framework are delivered in accordance with apprenticeshipsni operational requirements.
The apprentice must be employed from day one.
Further information
The content of this framework (Framework 116 Issue 9: 9/23) has been agreed by the Department for the Economy. For further information, contact:
Fashion and Textiles job roles
Pathway 1 - Textiles
Textile Operative - Undertakes many different tasks in the production of textile materials. Typically, this might involve occupations such as carding, spinning, twisting, warping, weaving and other roles at this level of textile manufacturing (this is not an exhaustive list).
Many textile machines are now automated; therefore, a key aspect of a textile operative's job is to maintain the supply of fabric and materials into machines and ensure the processes are running smoothly.
Quality Control Inspector - Responsible for checking the quality of products within a production run, often making checks at a variety of stages through the process.
Linker - Assembles quality knitted garments using either a point to point or random linking machine in the construction of knitting or hosiery products.
Knitting Operatives/Knitters - Responsible for working the machines that turn natural or man-made yarns into fabrics or garments. There are many different types of knitting machines, which can be operated by hand or by using a computerised system.
Product Tester - It is important that all manufactured products meet British and European standards and are fit for purpose. They must therefore be tested thoroughly throughout the manufacturing process. This is the responsibility of a Product Tester.
Textile Maintenance Mechanic - Responsible for routine maintenance of specialist textiles machinery.
Pathway 2 - Sewn Products
Material Cutter - Will lay out and cut materials to form components for the manufacture of sewn products, addressing manual, machine and computer aided operations.
Sewing Machinist - Stitches sections of material together to make a variety of fabric products, ranging from clothing, soft furnishings, interiors to industrial products.
Tape Sealer - Prepares machinery and equipment to seal products using a manually controlled tape sealing machine to produce either clothing or related items.
Hand Presser - Prepares the material for pressing, hand press garments using dry iron, steam iron and vacuum buck pressing methods.
Quality Control Inspector - Responsible for checking the quality of products within a production run, often making checks at a variety of stages through the process.
Clothing Presser - Will use scissor presses, professional ironing tables and formers to shape garments and remove creases. They typically work for clothing manufacturers or dry-cleaning companies.
Sewing Maintenance Mechanic - Responsible for routine maintenance of specialist sewn products machinery.
Core knowledge
In all six pathways apprentices are required to learn about the history and setting of their chosen sub-sector, working safely in fashion and textiles manufacturing settings, how to develop and maintain working relationships and how to maintain quality standards.
Core skills
In all six pathways apprentices are required to implement health, safety and security procedures which comply with statutory regulations and organisational safety requirements in the manufacturing setting chosen. They will be expected to maintain the work area to produce quality artefacts. Apprentices will also develop the skills needed to demonstrate key competencies and safe performance in their chosen pathway.
Core behaviours
As described in the Core Knowledge section, apprentices will develop as part of normal working practice behaviour that demonstrates the ability to act professionally, be risk aware, display a self-disciplined, self-motivated, proactive approach to work and to work reliably and safely. They will also be able to work effectively and efficiently, individually and as part of a team.