01. Who is this course for?
This course aims to introduce learners to sewing or refresh their sewing skills. Learners will bring a project with them; it could be one they have already started or one they are starting from scratch. The tutor will support learners to complete their project. In addition, the tutor will offer smaller projects to make useful wearable items or gifts. This is an ideal opportunity to re-use or repurpose fabrics to reduce waste and develop sustainability.
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02. What will I learn?
You will learn how to make use of existing fabric you have at home, cut fabric using a pattern or measurements, sew straight, create neat seams with the correct seam allowance, make buttonholes, insert a zip, finish raw edges on the inside of your item and make a useful item from scratch.
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03. How will I learn?
This course combines tutor-led activities with independent learner projects. Learners will be supported through class demonstrations and 1:1 assistance to develop their skills and create their own pieces. Learners will receive regular verbal and written feedback on their progress.
Please avoid taking holidays during the course. Missed lessons can affect funding for adult learning courses.
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04. What will I need to bring?
Please bring fabric/clothes (could be repurposed); lightweight interfacing - 0.5m should be sufficient; a basic sewing kit: small scissors, hand sewing needles, pins, tape measure, seam unpicker, buttons, closed zips, ruler and a notebook and pen. Additional Costs/Resources, please note: Any additional costs that arise for resources needed will be paid for by the learner, including scissors.
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05. What skills or experience do I need?
This course is suitable for learners who are keen to learn a new skill and those with previous experience of sewing. The items made will build in complexity over the course. Although all the projects are possible to be made with hand sewing, it is preferable to have experience of using a sewing machine to complete the projects more easily.
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06. How will I be assessed?
The Learning for Wellbeing curriculum uses formative and summative assessment methods to evaluate learner progress. You will work towards completing a set of class learning targets, as well as your own personal development targets. Targets are reviewed at the middle and end of the course. Informal discussions with the tutor will take place throughout the course, both individually and in groups. Your progress may also be documented through photographic evidence.
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07. What could I do after this course?
Learning for Wellbeing provide a wide range of sewing courses, including:
Introduction to Sewing; Starting to Sew with your Sewing Machine, Asian Fashion – Salwar Kameez, Reuse Fabric – Make a Shirt
Or why not try something else from the Learning for Wellbeing curriculum. There is a wide range of art, craft, sewing, cookery, dance and creative arts courses for you to continue developing your skills while improving your wellbeing. Courses are available to search on the GoLearn website.
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08. How will I be supported in my learning?
We aim to support all learners to succeed. Our tutors will work with all learners to meet individual needs by using a range of resources and teaching methods.
When you enrol on your course you will be asked if you have any additional learning needs or disabilities which may affect your learning. This might include physical disabilities, neurodivergent needs (e.g., Autistic Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, or dyspraxia, etc.), visual and auditory impairments, or a medical condition which might affect your learning. Your tutor will contact you prior to joining the course to discuss what support can be put in place.
For some learners, this may mean organising extra time in exams or arranging for a Learning Support Assistant to support your learning in class. We also offer a wide range of assistive technology such as reader pens, screen readers, large print keyboards and screens, alongside in-class resources such as coloured overlays, large-print resources and more.
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09. Is help available with course fees?
Many of our courses are FREE to all learners. For fee-paying courses, if you are in receipt of state benefits or have a low income (£26,211.90 before deductions) you could be entitled to enrol on your course for FREE, or at a 70% Reduced Fee cost. If your course is accredited (working towards a formal qualification) your course may be FREE if you earn under £25,000 before deductions. Some exclusions apply, eligibility for fee reduction is subject to change, and you may be required to provide evidence of earnings.
If the amount you must pay for your course is over £50, we offer instalment plans which break down the cost of learning into a set number of easy monthly payments.
If you need help with the wider costs of study, such as childcare, resources, travel, and transport costs, you may be eligible to have these costs reimbursed through our Discretionary Learner Support Fund. Visit us online for more details, and to download the online application form.
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10. How do I choose the right course for me?
If you are unsure about which course may be right for you, our team of Learning and Work Advisers are on hand to offer FREE and impartial information, advice and guidance on learning and work options available to you.
To book your free, confidential, and impartial appointment, please call FREEphone 0800 988 0308 or email LALS.LWA@leics.gov.uk.
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