Providing technical support throughout the garment development process
This apprenticeship provides the learner with practical and technical knowledge on creating tech packs and producing high quality samples - whether for garments, fabrics, accessories, footwear or non-soft fabric homeware - that meet design and technical specifications. Apprentices gain practical experience and will ultimately be responsible for technical and commercial elements of the product development cycle.
We recommend applicants have GCSE English and Maths, along with intermediate-level MS Excel skills.
KEY information
- Develop production skills and a broad knowledge of the production process
- Encourages professional behaviours and develops confidence
- Develops commercial acumen and an understanding of the impact of different decisions
APPRENTICESHIP DETAILS
The Level 4 Fashion and Textiles Product Technologist apprenticeship equips learners with the technical knowledge to support every stage of garment production.
- Open cohorts start in February/March, April/May and September/October
- Closed cohorts can start at any time
- Hybrid, online and in-person delivery
- Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning
The Level 4 Fashion and Textiles Product Technologist apprenticeship is designed to give learners a complete understanding of the production process, from developing knowledge of fibres and fabrics, to creating samples and tech packs. Learners will explore the key stages of the product lifecycle, including initial concepts, technical specifications and approval processes, through to analysis of product faults and returns.
On completion of this apprenticeship, learners will have the knowledge, skills and behaviours to support the development and production of a wide range of textile products, including garments, accessories, footwear and homeware, and use this insight to inform commercial decisions to drive efficiency, profit and growth.
The Level 4 Fashion and Textiles Product Technologist apprenticeship costs £9,000 per learner which includes End-Point Assessment.
Funding
Apprenticeships can be funded from your Apprenticeship Levy or by Government Co-Invest. If you do not pay the Levy, the Government will fund 95% of the programme, meaning you pay as little as £450 per person you enrol. We are also able to offer privately funded places for any employees not eligible for apprenticeship funding. For further information about funding options, eligibility and costs, please contact us.
Cost Includes:
- Bespoke off-the-job learning plan
- Programme Manager overseeing the learner journey and apprentice experience
- Delivery of the programme by retail experts
- Blend of sessions including online learning, webinars, in-person workshops, and individual coaching and support
- Preparation and support for End-Point Assessment
- Dedicated Client Relationships Coordinator
- Access to FRA resources including WGSN, LinkedIn Learning, Global Data, Business of Fashion, Fashion/Beauty Monitor and Drapers
- Online e-Portfolio
- Monthly progress report
Duration: 18 months
The Level 4 Fashion and Textiles Product Technologist apprenticeship typically takes 16 months to complete, followed by a period of end-point assessment of approximately 3 months.
Open Cohort Intakes
February/March
April/May
September/October
Enquire now to secure places for your team
Closed Cohorts
We can begin a closed intake apprenticeship at any time that suits your brand. We require a minimum of 10 learners to offer a closed cohort for Level 4 Fashion and Textiles Product Technologist.
For our closed-access programmes, we can devise a flexible programme and delivery model to support the needs of your business – please get in touch to find out more about the options available.
Off-the-job learning is delivered through a combination of full day and half day group workshops approximately every 2–3 weeks, which may take place online or in person.
Customer & Supply Chain Management
- Understand customer requirements (quality, timescales, finish).
- Manage brand standards and ethics.
- Oversee supply chain processes, sourcing, SLAs, delays, cost increases.
- Handle global supplier relations and logistics (lead times, shipping, regulations).
Materials Knowledge & Testing
- Properties and behavior of raw materials, fabrics, trims.
- Material selection aligned with design, performance, and aesthetics.
- Conduct and analyze testing (tension, durability, wash, fatigue).
- Understand labelling and regulatory compliance for materials.
Product Development & Sampling
- Develop, cost, and approve product samples.
- Participate in fit sessions and sample reviews.
- Manage sample sealing systems and documentation.
- Assess samples for quality, fit, risk, and production feasibility.
Production Processes & Planning
- Manage end-to-end production workflows (e.g. pattern, cutting, sewing, packing).
- Use industrial and specialist machinery.
- Plan production schedules, workloads, and apply critical path management.
- Ensure targets and deadlines are met efficiently.
Quality Assurance & Control
- Apply quality standards (ISO, BSI, national standards).
- Detect and resolve faults (in fit, construction, finish).
- Manage inspection, approval, and quality control systems.
- Collaborate with logistics and warehouse to maintain product standards.
Technical Documentation & Systems
- Create and maintain tech-packs, specifications, and working drawings.
- Utilise IT systems for production tracking and CAD/CAM.
- Ensure accuracy in technical records and consequences of errors.
- Maintain comprehensive documentation through production lifecycle.
Compliance, Safety & Problem Resolution
- Follow health, safety, environmental, legal, and trade regulations.
- Promote safe working practices and risk assessments.
- Identify and solve product faults and returned product issues.
- Conduct root cause analysis and implement preventive measures.
End-point assessment
For the Level 4 Fashion and Textiles Product Technologist, end-point assessment typically takes 3 months to complete.
EPA includes a multiple-choice test, and work-based project including presentation and Q&As.
Our apprentices really enjoy their time coming in to study, they're well supported, and EFI Training are very accommodating with their schedules.
Robyn Dunsford, Talent Development Advisor, Harrods