Bespoke cutter and tailor
Level 5 · HigherCreative and design 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
The Bespoke Cutter and Tailor apprenticeship is a prestigious craft programme covering the high-end skills of Savile Row and the wider bespoke tailoring trade. Apprentices learn to take precise measurements, cut and construct tailored garments entirely by hand and machine to the client's exact requirements. It leads to specialist cutter, tailor or master craftsperson roles in the luxury fashion sector.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Pattern drafting and block construction from measurements
Cloth knowledge including wool, silk and specialist fabrics
Hand sewing techniques including pad stitching and finishing
Basting and fitting procedures with clients
Construction of structured garments including suits and coats
Alteration and adjustment of bespoke garments
Client consultation and measurement taking
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Take detailed body measurements and record client preferences
Draft patterns and cut cloth to individual specifications
Baste garments together for fitting appointments
Attend fittings and mark alterations with the client
Hand-sew lapels, linings and finishing details
Press and shape garments at each stage of construction
Complete and finish garments to the agreed delivery standard
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 5 (Higher) - roughly Foundation-degree level. Usually needs Level 3 (A-levels, a T-Level, or an Advanced apprenticeship) or relevant experience.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 6 (Degree) apprenticeship or a senior role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
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What it’s really like
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