The UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT) has announced it has become the Sector Skills Body for the Fashion & Textiles industry. UKFT has taken over the management of current apprenticeship framework and also the responsibility of both registration and certification of apprentices in England, Scotland and Wales. The Association will work with devolved nation’s stakeholders to ensure that National Occupational Standards and apprenticeship provision for the sector are maintained and developed.

The announcement came as UKFT, Damian Collins MP and Graduate Fashion Week hosted key policy makers, industry influencers, major retailers, leading brands and UK manufacturers at the House of Commons to celebrate the fashion and textile industry.

“With industry skills and training being a huge part of UKFT’s commitment to the sector, this is very welcome news. We are proud to take over from Creative Skillset, which has supported the industry since 2010 and we thank them for the achievements made during that time. It is extremely important to ensure the management and certification of apprenticeships and other vocational qualifications is closely aligned to the needs of the industry,” says Adam Mansell CEO, UKFT. 

Mark Froud, MD, Federation for Industry Sector Skills & Standards (FISSS) said, “We look forward to working with UKFT as being close to the employers is critical and they have their trust and respect. UKFT has a strong approach to ensuring that Apprenticeships and training are kept up to date in what is an increasingly fast paced world.”