SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Higher Certificate in Fashion Design

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
122732	Higher Certificate in Fashion Design
ORIGINATOR
Stadio (Pty) Ltd
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Higher Certificate	Field 02 - Culture and Arts		Design Studies
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	120	Not Applicable	NQF Level 05	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered		EXCO 0526/24	2024-08-22	2027-08-22
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-08-22		2031-08-22

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification.

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

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.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

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.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

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.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

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

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.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

Country: Australia
Institution: Curtin University (CU)
Qualification title: Fashion Design Major
Duration: Three years fulltime
Credits: 200

Entry requirements
Applications for credit towards a course are assessed on an individual basis. Credit reduces the amount of learning required to complete the course and may be granted for formal education qualifications, non-formal learning from non-award programs of study and informal learning through work experiences.

Purpose/rationale
This qualification provides learners with a theoretical and contextual framework to understand national and international trends and the cultural significance and practice of fashion design. The development of research, analysis, ideation, production, and communication skills is underpinned by the principles of both the design process and creative practice. The three-year course encourages an innovative approach to design, coupled with technical competencies and industry expertise.

Qualification structure
Modules
Year one

Form and Structure.
Year two

Culture and Dress.

Garment and the Body, comparable with Garment Construction.

Sustainable Fashion, comparable with Fashion Design Techniques.

Technology and Dress, comparable with Digital Aided Design.
Year three

Collection Development.

Fit, Form and Function.

Language of Dress.

Learning Outcomes

Apply the principles and technology of garment design and construction; independently research and manage the application of new skills and knowledge to the garment design process.

Apply critical thinking and evaluation to the practice of contemporary fashion design; apply the language and semiotics of garments to the expression of an idea or concept.

Apply the principles of garment design through an investigation of 2D and 3D media; develop a collection through the synthesis of a body of independent research.

Clearly communicate design solutions through the application of written, verbal two- and three-dimensional information, and apply a high level of professional practice in the presentation of work to industry.

Similarities:

Curtin University (CU) and South African SA qualification share similar modules such as Garment and the Body, Sustainable Fashion and Technology and Dress.

CU and SA qualifications share similar qualification learning outcomes, which will allow the learner to demonstrate the ability to apply the principles and technology of garment design and act responsibly and ethically within a fashion design work environment.

Both CU and SA qualifications share a similar purpose/rationale which provides basic introductory knowledge, cognitive and conceptual tools, and practical techniques.

Difference

Curtin University (CU) qualification is offered for three years full-time, while the South African (SA) qualification is offered for one year full-time.

CU qualification is offered with 200 credits, while the SA qualification is offered with 120 credits.

Country: China
Institution: Marangoni Shanghai Fashion Training Centre (MSTC)
Qualification title: Fashion Design Intensive
Duration: One year full-time.

Entry requirements

Candidates must have a sufficient command of English or the chosen language of the course to be able to meet the requirements of the programme in every respect.

When considering the suitability of an applicant for a place on the programme the Admissions team will usually take the following factors into account:

The applicant's qualifications (High School Diploma or equivalent school certificate)

Purpose/rationale
Fashion Design Intensive produces students able to design a collection and merge research, creativity, and marketing. The qualification begins with the development of a personal sketching language. Then students will learn how to discipline their creativity to fit the marketplace and fulfil consumers' demands.

Qualification structure
Modules:

Fashion Drawing Fundamentals and Illustration, comparable with Fashion Design Techniques.

Introduction to Fashion Collection, comparable with Fashion Practice.

Pattern Cutting, comparable with Pattern Construction.

Digital Design I, comparable with Digital Aided Design.

History of Contemporary Fashion.

Fabrics and Materials.

Experimental Illustration.

Collection Design.

Digital Design II.

Analysis of Trends.

Production Processes.

Qualification outcomes:

Apply skills of critical analysis to real-world situations within a defined range of contexts.

Demonstrate a high degree of professionalism characterised by initiative, creativity, motivation, and self-management.

Express ideas effectively and communicate information appropriately and accurately using a range of media including ICT.

Develop working relationships using teamwork and leadership skills, recognising, and respecting different perspectives.

Assessments:
Formative assessment

Criteria and goal setting: asking students to participate in establishing what should be included in the criteria for success.

Self and peer assessment: With peer evaluation, students see each other as resources for understanding and checking for quality work against previously established criteria.

Summative assessments
Summative assessments can occur during as well as at the end of each subject and concentrate on specific evidence of the student.
work, examples as follows:

Portfolio Assessment is used to assess a variety of projects that have been developed throughout the course.

Practical Coursework allows the students to demonstrate their understanding and application of practical areas of study.

Written Reports are required in some study areas, where a clear and structured brief is provided, and the students are asked.

Similarities:

Marangoni Shanghai Fashion Training Centre (MSTC) and South African (SA) qualifications require learners who completed a High School Diploma or equivalent school certificate.

MSTC and SA qualifications are offered for one year full-time.

MSTC and SA qualifications share similar modules such as Pattern Cutting, and Digital Design.

Both MSTC and SA qualifications access learners using formative assessment and summative assessment methods.

Both MSTC and SA qualifications share similar qualification outcomes which demonstrate the ability to critically analyse real-world situations within a defined range of contexts.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

Horizontal Articulation:

Higher Certificate in Fashion, NQF Level 5.

Higher Certificate in Fashion Styling, NQF Level 5.

Vertical Articulation:

Diploma in Fashion, NQF Level 6.

Bachelor of Arts in Fashion, NQF Level 7.

Bachelor of Design, NQF Level 7.

Bachelor of Commerce in Fashion, NQF Level 7.

Diagonal Articulation:

No diagonal articulation options for this qualification.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

NOTES

N/A

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

NONE

PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION:

This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.

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