Design
A course by
Whitecliffe College
Develop advanced skills in fashion design, construction, and textiles, including flat and computer-aided pattern making, Adobe Illustrator, and sustainable practices for the modern fashion industry.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Available in 3 locations
It will take a total of 1 year

Develop a broad range of technical skills in flat and computer-aided pattern making and garment construction.

Apply elements and principles of fashion design to create original collections using creative development techniques and Adobe Illustrator.

Demonstrate knowledge of textiles and materials for effective and sustainable fashion design.
The Diploma in Fashion at Whitecliffe prepares students for the commercial fashion industry with advanced technical skills, from traditional and digital pattern making to textiles and Adobe Illustrator. The programme blends creative design processes, sustainability, and practical projects with industry engagement—such as the Resene Colour of Fashion project and Whitecliffe Annual Fashion Show—enabling students to design and present their own collections. Graduates are ready for entry-level positions in fashion, or to progress to further study.
What you need to know first
Turn 17 within the first year of study at Whitecliffe.

Fashion
Textile
Apparel

Production Assistant
Cutting Room Assistant
Warehouse Assistant
Design
A course by
Whitecliffe College
Develop advanced skills in fashion design, construction, and textiles, including flat and computer-aided pattern making, Adobe Illustrator, and sustainable practices for the modern fashion industry.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Available in 3 locations
It will take a total of 1 year

Develop a broad range of technical skills in flat and computer-aided pattern making and garment construction.

Apply elements and principles of fashion design to create original collections using creative development techniques and Adobe Illustrator.

Demonstrate knowledge of textiles and materials for effective and sustainable fashion design.
The Diploma in Fashion at Whitecliffe prepares students for the commercial fashion industry with advanced technical skills, from traditional and digital pattern making to textiles and Adobe Illustrator. The programme blends creative design processes, sustainability, and practical projects with industry engagement—such as the Resene Colour of Fashion project and Whitecliffe Annual Fashion Show—enabling students to design and present their own collections. Graduates are ready for entry-level positions in fashion, or to progress to further study.
What you need to know first
Turn 17 within the first year of study at Whitecliffe.

Fashion
Textile
Apparel

Production Assistant
Cutting Room Assistant
Warehouse Assistant
Successfully gained the New Zealand Certificate in Apparel and Fashion Technology (Level 4) OR the New Zealand Certificate in Fashion (Level 4); OR equivalent industry experience with demonstrated literacy, numeracy, and computer literacy. Entry test may be required.
Trainee Machinist
Successfully gained the New Zealand Certificate in Apparel and Fashion Technology (Level 4) OR the New Zealand Certificate in Fashion (Level 4); OR equivalent industry experience with demonstrated literacy, numeracy, and computer literacy. Entry test may be required.
Trainee Machinist