Higher Certificate in Fashion Design

Purpose

The purpose of the Higher Certificate in Fashion Design provides learners with basic introductory knowledge, cognitive and conceptual tools, and practical techniques for higher education studies in their chosen field of study. This qualification aims to provide an introductory level of higher knowledge and competence in a particular field or occupation (fashion design). Learners can apply such knowledge and competence in an occupation or role in the workplace. Learners will apply the acquired knowledge in the workplace via a simulated work environment and will be able to access specific career paths in the fashion industry and achieve craft-based design outcomes.

Learners will have sufficient knowledge of Fashion Design techniques and skills to construct craft-based design outcomes in a fashion studio. These skills will include pattern drafting, dressmaking, digital literacy for the fashion workplace and fundamentals of aesthetical and functional garment design. Learners will be able to apply the fundamental practical techniques and technical skills from fashion design to construct aesthetically pleasing and functional garments while using digital applications and software to realise design outcomes. This will allow learners to enter the world of work in any of the career opportunities:

• Assistant designer.
• Junior pattern maker.
• Junior garment technologist.
• Junior fashion illustrator.
• Dress Maker.

Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to

• Demonstrate the ability to apply the basic principles of patternmaking to draft a pattern.
• Demonstrate the ability to apply the basic principles of garment construction to make a garment.
• Utilise fashion design techniques to create aesthetically pleasing and functional garment designs.
• Use digital platforms and software in the context of fashion design.
• Integrate theoretical and practical fashion design-and-construction knowledge in a simulated work environment.

Rationale

The need for this purposefully vocationally oriented qualification is to provide learners with sufficient practical knowledge and skills that align with the needs of the industry. This qualification extensively focused on enabling the learners to practice, refine and master the vocational skills relating to Fashion Design techniques and skills such as pattern drafting, garment construction and digital design skills. This qualification will allow the learners sufficient hands-on time to learn and master the requisite vocational knowledge and skills. This qualification will be more likely to realise learners' success and graduation and will see learners accessing the world of work with abilities that make them employable and highly sought after.

The skills and knowledge areas incorporated into this qualification have been identified by industry specialists and external academic practitioners as critical components required to develop the knowledge and competence to achieve the outcomes and objectives of this qualification. A qualification review was conducted by the institution which demonstrates that the strength of the existing Higher Certificate in Fashion is found in the vocational modules. Qualifying learners for the qualification will need practical fashion design skills and digital and technical knowledge required by the world of work.

Learners who complete this qualification will have sufficient knowledge of Fashion Design techniques and skills to construct craft-based design outcomes in a fashion studio. These learners will be able to apply the fundamental practical techniques and technical skills from fashion design to construct aesthetically pleasing and functional garments while applying digital applications and software to realise design outcomes.

Clothing and textiles have been identified as one of the key industries critical to driving the South African economy. Further to this, the government has committed to building and growing this sector and, as such, creating learners who are employable within the sector who will facilitate the achievement of this mandate and contribute to economic development. The Government Gazette, vol. 636 (2018) lists apparel, related pattern makers, and textile cutters as high-demand skills. Learners who complete this qualification will be able to demonstrate these skills at an entry level.

The role of a fashion designer is often thought of as being limited to creating sketches and designs for clothing. However, a fashion designer's skills span across the entire fashion production cycle, from concept development to manufacturing and distribution. This qualification will support the learner through the various modules in which are fashion designer's skills are honed for entry-level employment opportunities across the multiple roles within the broad fashion production sector.

Qualifying learners will be able to support head designers in a fashion studio setup during the initial concept development stage. The knowledge and skills from this qualification will support the learners in making informed design decisions and ensure that the designs they are working on are commercially viable. These design decisions are instrumental in setting the direction and tone for the entire fashion production cycle.

Fashion designers are further involved in the technical design stage. During this stage, they create detailed technical specifications and patterns for each design, which are then moved to the garment construction phase to create the final product. Fashion designers require a deep understanding of garment construction, fabric properties, and production processes (that include factors such as fabric costs and production efficiency). Fashion Design is ultimately a combination of creativity, technical knowledge, and production awareness.

The typical learners enrolling for this qualification are practical, technical, dexterous, detail-oriented, and have good visualisation skills. The learners will be able to use their skills to work in a design studio, fashion label, or fashion-related business in a junior position, completing various entry-level practical, technical, and digital tasks. These learners may be either a school leaver or an adult learner who wants a pathway into the fashion design industry or who already works in the industry but wants a formal qualification for promotion and progression. The learners must be competent in English (the institution's medium of instruction) and willing to apply constructs learned in the classroom and the workplace.

The employment entry point for a fashion designer is typically in a fashion studio setup, where they assist the lead fashion designers with various tasks involved in the fashion design process. These tasks can include everything from assisting with designing and producing garments to helping with administrative and digital tasks.

Entry-level fashion designers may undertake

• Fabric sourcing and selection.
• Garment construction.
• Design research.
• Assistant designer.
• Junior fashion illustrator.

Qualifying learners will acquire vocational knowledge and skills instrumental in pursuing further studies in Diploma or Bachelor qualifications related to fashion production. The successful completion of this qualification will enable learners to advance to the Diploma NQF 6 followed by the Advanced Diploma NQF 7. Alternatively, learners may choose to pursue an academic learning pathway by enrolling in the Bachelor of Arts in Fashion with a specialisation in Design (NQF 7). This pathway offers learners lifelong learning opportunities, including access to the Bachelor of Arts Honours in Fashion (NQF 8).

The fashion industry is an important contributor to the South African economy, providing jobs and stimulating economic growth. Qualifying learners will be equipped with the skills needed to work in this industry, supporting the growth and development of the sector. Additionally, the qualification promotes creativity, innovation, and cultural diversity, contributing to the overall enrichment of South African society. There is a need for greater representation and diversity in the South African fashion industry. Young fashion practitioners from different backgrounds can help to promote inclusivity and represent a broader range of perspectives in the industry. These fashion designers can help address inequality issues and promote a more vibrant and diverse fashion industry in the country.

The fashion industry generates billions of Rands in revenue each year through exports of textiles and apparel generating. This qualification will provide learners with the skills and knowledge needed to work in this industry, contributing to the growth and competitiveness of South Africa's fashion sector. Learners can start their own businesses or work for established fashion brands, creating jobs and generating economic activity.

Furthermore, the global fashion industry is constantly evolving and changing, and young fashion practitioners can help to keep South Africa's fashion industry competitive and relevant in a rapidly changing market. They can bring new ideas and approaches to design, production, and branding that can help local fashion brands succeed both locally and internationally.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

• Applicants who do not meet the stated admission criteria, but who have relevant work experience or prior learning may apply for admission under the policy on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). The institution admits a maximum of 10% per cohort via RPL. The implementation of RPL is context-specific, in terms of discipline, programme and level. Procedures and forms are available from the School Administration.

RPL for exemption of modules

• In specified circumstances qualifying applicants may also engage in the RPL for exemption process, where any form of informal, formal, or non-formal learning will be assessed for relevance towards possible module exemption.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate studies.

Or

• National Certificate Vocational, NQF Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate studies.

Or

• Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, without endorsement.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 5 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 120 Credits

• Pattern Construction I, 20 Credits.
• Pattern Construction II, 20 Credits.
• Garment Construction I, 15 Credits.
• Garment Construction II15, Credits.
• Fashion Design Techniques, 20 Credits.
• Digital Aided Design, 10 Credits.
• Fashion Practice, 20 Credits.

1. Demonstrate the ability to apply the basic principles of patternmaking to draft a pattern.
2. Demonstrate the ability to apply the basic principles of garment construction to make a garment.
3. Demonstrate the ability to utilize fashion design techniques to create aesthetically pleasing and functional garment designs.
4. Use digital platforms and software in the context of fashion design.
5. Demonstrate the ability to integrate theoretical and practical fashion design and construction knowledge in a simulated work environment.
6. Act responsibly and ethically within a fashion design work environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Apply the correct landmarks, labels, notches, and grainlines on a pattern block.
• Create a smooth fit through the correct use of the grainline and notches on the pattern and garment.
• Manipulate darts on a pattern to create volume, shape and fit.
• Manipulate a pattern block to create fit, flare, shape and or volume.
• Sew the correct finishing techniques for the fabric and garment type.
• Sew various garment details using the correct techniques.
• Illustrate the correct shape and volume created by different fabric qualities.
• Distinguish between the working details applied to flared and fitted garment designs.
• Design garment silhouettes and shapes appropriate for a fabric type and weight.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Find relevant and appealing visual references in accordance with a theme or trend as a source of inspiration for a garment design.
• Identify suitable shapes, forms, and proportions from visual references.
• Develop an appealing colour palette in accordance with a theme or trend.
• Explore garment details, shape, volume, fit and flare through ideation sketches.
• Develop a finished design with appropriate working and functional details.
• Create considered and appealing design outcomes utilizing fashion design elements and principles.
• Illustrate the correct shape and volume created by different fabric qualities and weights.
• Accurately communicate design ideas, garment details, fit and proportion through fashion illustrations and technical sketches.
• Label garment details on a technical or design sketch with the correct terminology.
• Utilise fashion design techniques to create aesthetically pleasing and functional garment designs.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Label various components on the pattern with the correct terminology.
• Label garment details on a technical or design sketch with the correct terminology.
• Translate the garment proportions and details from the technical drawing to the working pattern.
• Use the correct pattern methods to create, fit, flare and/or volume.
• Follow an order of construction to assemble a garment sequentially.
• Use the correct sewing applications, such as interfacing, cutting, and notching, in the fabric preparation process.
• Use the correct garment construction methods to create fit, flare and volume in a garment.
• Apply appropriate openings, closures, trimmings and finishes for a garment.
• Use the correct sewing machine settings according to the fabric type and weight.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Draft proportionate, accurate and symmetrical technical drawings.
• Correctly illustrate garment details using appropriate line weightings and types.
• Use the correct functions and tools of a digital software programme when illustrating a design.
• Apply the functions and tools of a digital software programme correctly to illustrate designs and create design layouts.
• Create a considered, resolved and visually balanced design layout using a digital application.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Find suitable, relevant, and appealing visual images on a digital platform as inspiration for a client's design.
• Apply fashion design elements and principles to design a visually appealing and functional garment.
• Apply the correct pattern construction principles and methods to draft a pattern for a garment.
• Apply the correct garment construction principles and methods to sew a garment for a client.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Integrate various ethical and sustainable practices in the fashion design process.
• Reference all sources (visual, textual, and material) as part of the fashion design process.
• Create original design outcomes based on the designer's own ideas to demonstrate an understanding of design plagiarism.
• Communicate technical information relating to a design brief coherently and effectively within a simulated fashion work environment.
• Manage timelines and work outputs effectively, following a procedural workflow within a simulated fashion work environment.

INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT

This qualification includes 28 assessment events using a continuous assessment approach, which aims to facilitate vocational competencies through the application of various skills. Informal assessments include activities:

• Self-assessments.
• Class participation.
• Discussions.
• Quizzes, and practical tasks.

Formative assessments

The nature of formal formative assessments will be primarily focused on practical assessments and in-class projects with no paper-based (exam) type questions. Feedback is provided throughout the learning process to scaffold student learning, and collaborative processes are used to develop teamwork skills.

This assessment strategy is based on the principle that practical application is often more important than theoretical knowledge in a fashion design context. Therefore, a practice-based, continuous assessment strategy is deemed to be more effective in measuring learners' ability to apply design concepts in real-world situations. Secondly, design and artefact production are part of a highly creative field in this case, and there are often no right or wrong answers. Practical assessment will provide for more comprehensive and accurate feedback, allowing for an increase in the quality of the design work produced. Thirdly, fashion is a collaborative field, and learners must often work in teams to produce successful designs, patterns, or garments. Therefore, practical assessments that involve group work would further provide valuable experience and help to develop teamwork skills, which are essential in the fashion industry.

Summative assessment

The summative assessment process is aimed at evaluating learning toward the achievement of a qualification or part qualification. The aim of the summative assessment is to evaluate the success of learning towards a stated minimum standard.