Short course
Fashion Portfolio for 11 to 15 Year Olds Short Course
Course description
Course overview
This dynamic one-week course offers aspiring fashion designers the opportunity to build a powerful, authentic creative portfolio, tailored to their unique strengths and experiences. Designed to prepare students for entry interviews and their first steps into the creative industries, this course combines practical demonstrations, inspiring videos, and personalised tutorials to enhance their skills and confidence.
Through expert guidance, students will gain invaluable insights into what university admissions teams are looking for in a standout portfolio. They will also develop a clearer understanding of the diverse areas within the fashion industry and discover which specialisms align best with their creative interests. By the end of the course, students will have created a distinctive, authentic portfolio that showcases their creative identity and gained confidence in their artistic abilities. Students gain an insight into how to present work professionally and gain clarity on potential areas of specialisation within the fashion industry.
To maximize progress, students are expected to dedicate two hours of independent work per day, building on the portfolio exercises introduced during tutorials. Whether preparing for a fashion degree or refining their creative vision, students will leave this course equipped with the skills and knowledge to make their mark in the industry.
Who this course is for
This course is for students aged 11 to 15 who are eager to pursue a future in the creative industries. It would be ideal for those looking to start building a compelling portfolio in preparation for entry exams at GCSE, A-level or beyond.
The course also provides an excellent foundation for those new to the creative industries who wish to discover and develop their creative strengths while learning how to build a cohesive and impactful portfolio. This intermediate-level course is best suited for students who already possess some illustration and design skills.
Key information
Topics covered
- Discovering your creative identity: define your unique style and strengths as a future designer
- Building a unique portfolio: create moodboards, trend research, technical sketches and original designs
- Preparing for interviews: master presentation skills and meet creative industry standards
- Communicating your vision: tailor your design portfolio to captivate specific audiences and target markets
- Collaborative design skills: develop range plans and gain experience in the power of working as part of a creative team
Learning outcomes
- Discover and showcase unique strengths as creative designers, building confidence in personal style and artistic vision
- Understand interview processes and expectations and gain the skills to present work with clarity and professionalism
- Create an impressive foundation for a creative portfolio, tailored for entry interviews and future opportunities in the creative industries
- Build a well-rounded portfolio that includes moodboards, trend research, technical sketches and original designs, demonstrating a wide range of skills and creative thinking
- Effectively communicate the target customer, developing the ability to align work with specific audiences and industry expectations
- Gain a valuable insight into designing a range plan and experience working collaboratively as part of a creative team to bring ideas to life
- Receive a digital badge and certificate of attendance
- Develop an open-minded approach to art and design
- Experience art school teaching
For practical information about our kids and teens courses, take a look at our kids and teens information hub. This includes details of our policies on safeguarding, food allergies, learning requirements and online study.
Materials
- Notebook and pen
- Please bring at least 5 pieces of creative work that make you proud
- A3 flipfile portfolio to keep your work safe
- You may also want to bring any portable paints and brushes you like to use
Tutor
René de Lange
René de Lange's journey as a creative force began in her childhood, surrounded by the vibrant colours and natural beauty of South Africa. From drawing on her mother’s walls to immersing herself in collage, painting, and depicting African wildlife, René’s passion for art was undeniable. These early explorations laid the foundation for her distinctive design approach—bold, imaginative, and deeply rooted in storytelling.
After completing her MA in Fashion printed Textiles at the prestigious Royal College of Art, René carved out a successful career as a Print Designer, collaborating with renowned brands such as Ted Baker, Marks & Spencer, Debenhams, and Age of Reason. Her designs have graced luxury collections and been featured in Elle Decoration, reflecting her ability to fuse artistic creativity with commercial appeal. Always starting with hand drawn illustrations, René’s process is a celebration of craftsmanship, capturing the essence of timeless, statement making prints.
René’s creative ambitions extend beyond fashion, with the launch of her own creative brand and active participation in Artists’ Open Houses and community projects. Through these ventures, she continues to inspire and connect with others, bringing her vibrant designs into everyday life.
As a Fashion Lecturer, René blends her extensive industry experience with a dynamic teaching style that encourages students to embrace their individuality. She is passionate about nurturing the next generation of designers, equipping them with the skills and confidence to thrive in the competitive world of fashion. Guided by the ethos of Central Saint Martins, René celebrates exploration and innovation, empowering students to create portfolios that stand out and embody their unique visions.
Deeply committed to sustainability and meaningful design, René believes in fashion as both an art form and a platform for expression. Her work and teaching reflect a shared goal: to inspire creativity that is as impactful as it is beautiful.
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