How does the BNU fashion design course prepare students for the industry?
How BNU's Fashion Design course prepares students for work
On the BNU fashion design course, there are plenty of chances to build a strong bridge between education and graduate jobs.
It is important that during your University education you are not only gaining subject specific knowledge, but also developing essential industry skills. This means after graduating, finding a role isn't too much of a struggle.
Experience in creative industries like fashion, is a key point to have on your CV. By looking through plenty of job adverts, 'previous experience required' is a visible trend. Here is how BNU prepares their fashion design students to face the UK's largest creative industry.
Life industry project
In the second year every student takes part in a project led by industry professionals. This term students had the opportunity to design outerwear for a brand called Mackintosh. What was really exciting is the fact that each student received industry standard feedback from the brand leaders. And what is more, the second year creator of the best looking jacket had an opportunity for a paid internship at Mackintosh.
Professional Practice
Apart from industry led project briefs there is an entire module in third year to prepare students for the industry's challenges. During the module called 'Professional Practice' students are researching different career paths and are identifying essential skills and knowledge necessary for chosen sectors. This really helps in preparation of job specific portfolios and CVs. Students are encouraged to network and make the first connections with future employers.
Creative Futures Week
In between semesters, there is an entire week when instead of regular teaching, the schedule is full of talks and workshops led by creative industry professionals. This is a great opportunity to not only look at behind the scenes of design and production, but also to network with professional creatives and get feedback from them. The sessions are open to everyone across Art and Design courses, so this is a fantastic occasion to expand knowledge on different subjects, broaden your horizons, and get inspired.
After graduation
In third year one of the requirements is designing and producing a fashion collection. Your garments are then professionally photographed so you can start promoting them.
At BNU every fashion student has a chance to showcase their work to a wider audience through exhibiting their pieces during the Art and Design Summer Show. Additionally, students' works are reviewed by the British Fashion Council (BFC), as BNU has a close partnership with this organisation.
There is always more new and exciting opportunities each year. This year students showcased their fashion showreel on the official London fashion week website! On the BNU fashion design course, there are plenty of chances to build a strong bridge between education and graduate jobs.
