Prepare yourself for higher education or an entry level position in the fashion industry with a Level 3 diploma, equivalent to 3 A Levels. Ideal for those 16+, our Level 3 fashion diploma courses are the perfect way to kick start your higher education and career.
At the Fashion Retail Academy, our Level 3 fashion diplomas are some of our most popular courses for students wanting to explore the different specialisms of the fashion industry. Our Level 3 fashion diplomas are also fully funded by the government for those aged 16 - 18. We offer three different Level 3 programmes that provide professional training in a wide range of specialisms including, design, business, retail, production, merchandising, marketing, sustainability and much more.
WHAT IS A LEVEL 3 DIPLOMA?
A Level 3 diploma course is equivalent to 3 A levels and typically takes 2 years to complete.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, there are 8 qualification levels. The higher the level, the more advanced the qualification is.
At the Fashion Retail Academy, our fashion courses are between Levels 2 and 7.
Our Level 3 Fashion Diploma Courses are a great next step for school leavers in and around the London area.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO STUDY A LEVEL 3 DIPLOMA?
Level 3 diploma courses take 2 years to complete and are delivered over 2 days per week.
HOW MUCH DOES A LEVEL 3 DIPLOMA COST?
Our Level 3 fashion courses are fully funded for 16 - 18 year-olds, so you won’t need to pay course fees.
LEVEL 3 FASHION DIPLOMA COURSES WE OFFER
Level 3 Fashion Retail
Level 3 Fashion Retail introduces you to the many career opportunities available within the fashion industry, teaching you the essentials of fashion retailing from head office to retail. You'll graduate prepared for further education or an entry-level position in the creative or business branches of industry.
Level 3 Fashion Design
Level 3 Fashion Design teaches you the fundamentals of garment creation. In this challenging and inspiring course, you’ll develop your skills in research, drawing, pattern-cutting and garment construction. We’ll help prepare you for your next step towards an undergraduate degree course or a career in fashion.
Level 3 Visual Communications & Styling
You'll learn how to create on-brand communications through creative design and styling, as well as how to tell a cohesive and compelling story to your target audience.
APPLY NOW FOR LEVEL 3 FASHION COURSES IN LONDON
Apply now and start your Level 3 Diploma with us in September 2025!
LEVEL 3 FASHION COURSE STRUCTURE
At the Fashion Retail Academy, we structure our timetables over two full days a week. This means you can save money on travel to the Fashion Retail Academy, and you’ll have plenty of time to complete homework, study or work part-time on your free days.
Alongside your academic learning, you’ll gain invaluable first-hand experiences from our industry partners and support in building your professional network. You’ll benefit from industry specific enrichment which could include placements, projects or mentor programmes. This is a great way to boost your CV and gain invaluable job insight.
VISIT US OR GET IN TOUCH
Our friendly Applicant Services team is always happy to offer advice and answer any questions you have about studying with us. You can reach them by emailing applicant.services@fra.ac.uk or by phoning 0300 247 0039.
You can also visit us in person on one of our informative Level 3 and Level 4 Open Days!
*As long as you are at least 16 and a UK resident at the start of your course
I loved the Fashion Retail Academy! It has taught me so much, and I’ve had lots of industry experience. The college is very welcoming and supportive. I feel comfortable speaking to my tutor about anything, and the wellbeing team is great. I would 1000% recommend the Academy to anyone.
Leah
Level 3 Fashion Retail
The Fashion Retail Academy provides the best environment for students who want to work in the fashion industry. The teachers are so caring. They’re always there to help with your work, or just to chat if you’re having a bad day. I wouldn’t be where I am if it wasn’t for the FRA. The best decision I ever made was coming here!
Cameron
Level 3 Fashion Design
As soon as I saw the Fashion Retail Academy, I knew this was the place I needed to go! Everyone on my course is really friendly. We all help each other out and we’re like a big family. Being in the heart of London is so buzzy.
Daisy
Level 3 Fashion Retail
WE’RE OFSTED OUTSTANDING
Don’t just take our word for it – Ofsted has rated us as an officially outstanding college. Their report identified six areas of excellence.
SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
Learners develop the highest-quality, industry-relevant skills.
EXPERIENCE
A rich, varied curriculum and superb learning facilities.
TEACHING
Teaching is of the highest quality.
OUTCOMES
Progression into employment is exceptional.
INDUSTRY LINKS
Outstanding partnerships with employers and the fashion retail industry.
ACHIEVEMENTS
The achievement of learners is very high and for adult learners is exceptional.
