Bee Loved Fashion programme launches call-out to Greater Manchester schools and colleges

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Schools and colleges across Greater Manchester are being urged to sign up for Bee Loved Fashion Schools — a fully funded programme helping young people turn unwanted textiles into fresh fashion, while building confidence, creativity and green skills.

Launching this autumn, the hands-on after-school programme will give students of all abilities the chance to explore the impact of fashion and textile waste, learn practical repair and upcycling techniques, and create new pieces from donated items within their school community.

Fashion with purpose

Students will take part in six weekly, one-hour sessions that combine creativity, sustainability and enterprise. The programme will help young people develop:

  • An increased understanding of fashion and textile waste,
  • Practical skills in repair, upcycling and making
  • Awareness of sustainable consumption choices
  • Confidence, teamwork and enterprise skills
  • Enrichment and personal development
  • Early careers inspiration

Delivery partner Future Fashion Fair CIC will bring the ideas, inspiration and technical know-how, supporting students to try skills ranging from no-sew fixes and visible mending to block printing, redesign and basic machine use.

The programme will culminate in the launch of a Bee Loved Fashion Shop, where students can sell their creations and continue running the shop beyond the initial training — helping the project live on long after the sessions end.

Schools and colleges wanted

GMCA is now looking for fashion-forward schools and colleges ready to take part in the pilot. To find out more, email GreenCitySchools@greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk.

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