Learning curves
Ragtrader gets educated on training with four experts.
How has fashion education changed over the past year?
Kangan Batman TAFE manager of fashion retail Odile Higgins
This year a new training package was endorsed reflecting industry demands, particularly from small and medium businesses. Also, graduates increasingly need a holistic approach to design, production and business.
Kogarah Institute of TAFE head teacher of fashion Helen Oo
New training packages mean teachers have to develop new resources and costs are rising; a challenge for students.
University of Western Sydney (UWS) course consultant and David Jones HR manager Katrina Boulton
Fashion-based roles are becoming business orientated, so programs need to provide a mix of fashion knowledge, skills and business education.
Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE (MSIT) portfolio manager for creative industries Martin Watts
Students now have better computer skills -- including programs such as Illustrator and Photoshop -- than those starting only a year ago.
What is the most significant trend likely to affect education over the next year?
Kangan Batman TAFE manager of fashion retail Odile Higgins
There is greater emphasis on new technology in areas such as manufacturing, textiles, marketing and business. Also working with industry is critical.
Kogarah Institute of TAFE head teacher of fashion Helen Oo
The current trend puts emphasis on computer technology in design and production, as well as the ability to communicate well in a global environment.
University of Western Sydney (UWS) course consultant and David Jones HR manager Katrina Boulton
Given the skills shortage, it will be necessary for organisations to build their own resources and enlist external programs to ensure employees are job-ready.
Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE (MSIT) portfolio manager for creative industries Martin Watts
We’re realigning our courses to introduce production skills earlier on. Also the rise of boutique markets means unique garments are a growth area that will require students to be able to communicate effectively with their market.
What role does/should business education play in a good fashion industry education?
Kangan Batman TAFE manager of fashion retail Odile Higgins
Businesses can assist the education process by developing well structured work placements. Fashion businesses also have the opportunity to work with us developing specialised short courses.
Kogarah Institute of TAFE head teacher of fashion Helen Oo
Business and education should walk hand in hand to ensure that graduating students have up-to-date skills required by today's employers.
University of Western Sydney (UWS) course consultant and David Jones HR manager Katrina Boulton
A fashion business education needs to ensure students gain business skills applicable to work environments. Business programs built with industry input will encourage better transfer of learning.
Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE (MSIT) portfolio manager for creative industries Martin Watts
MSIT incorporates business into the final stages of its course. We focus on management although small business and marketing skills are also critical, while knowing how to market and tap into niche areas is key.
How is the current skills shortage being addressed by fashion educators? What gaps still need to be filled?
Kangan Batman TAFE manager of fashion retail Odile Higgins
Our courses aim to address globalisation –- in terms of the move away from mass market product with the growth of the affluent Chinese middle class -- and skills gaps including construction, draping, fitting, pattern making and lean manufacturing.
Kogarah Institute of TAFE head teacher of fashion Helen Oo
The new TCF training packages address some of the current skill shortages, but skilled patternmakers and experienced sample machinists are still in short supply.
University of Western Sydney (UWS) course consultant and David Jones HR manager Katrina Boulton
For department stores the biggest gap is in business skills, specifically planning and analysis roles such as merchandise planners. Initiatives designed by UWS aim to address this.
Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE (MSIT) portfolio manager for creative industries Martin Watts
The biggest gap is in production. MSIT offers advanced production courses at night to allow access to training and skills many emerging designers lack.