Fashion Retail Academy rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Nov 8, 2016

Independent training provider Fashion Retail Academy (FRA) has been recognised as ‘outstanding’ by an Ofsted report, which praised the employer led college for its management, teaching and learning facilities.

The Fashion Retail Academy was founded in 2005 as a partnership between the government and fashion retail. It offers a variety of specialist fashion diploma, degree and short courses, all designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge of the industry and hands on practical experience.

The report said leaders, governors and managers have established “a culture of excellence that results in very high achievement for learners”, with almost all learners gaining employment at their first-choice employer or moving into higher education.

Ads

Ofsted also said FRA’s partnerships with fashion retail employers ensure that learners benefit from a rich and relevant curriculum.

Lee Lucas, Principal & CEO of the Fashion Retail Academy, commented: “We are delighted at the recognition of the unique and pioneering nature of the FRA. This is testament to our innovative model and would not be possible without the support of our employer and retail partners along with our dedicated and passionate staff.”

Almost 7,000 people have studied at the Fashion Retail Academy over the past 12 years. Programmes include full-time courses on fashion design, merchandising for fashion and garment technology.

Mr. Lucas said over 130 retail brands are currently working with the provider, which has charitable status. The companies provide multiple services to enrich the student experience and in turn benefit from “a pool of talented, trained new entrants to recruit from”. 

FRA is currently working on further strategic projects including the launch of two new higher education courses.