PUPILS SHOW PASSION FOR FASHION
A pioneering clothes-making course designed for young parents has been adopted by a Dundee school to help boost engagement and aspiration amongst pupils.
Kindred Clothing, run by Dundee charity Front Lounge, is delivered by a range of businesses within its Clothes Making Learning Partnership (CMLP).
Kindred Clothing takes learners through the key stages of the garment production process from setting up and using a sewing machine through to mood boards, pattern making and construction.
Learners also gain practical fashion photography skills and techniques to present themselves, their stories and their clothes.
Nine pupils at Dundee’s Grove Academy (pictured) have completed a 10-week taster session of the full programme and yesterday the S2 pupils proudly revealed some of their creations at Kathryn Rattray Gallery, Dundee.
The taster session at Grove Academy has been delivered by Jolene Guthrie of Jo-AMI and Chair of the CMLP Gillian McIver of Andie. Jolene led an arm-knitting session, with Gillian making t-shirts.
Jolene said, “I’ve been teaching the pupils how to arm-knit, from the design process and technique through to the actual knitting itself. They’ve made an amazing collection of products from blankets and scarves to tops, with most not realising how versatile yarn can be, or the different aspects of knitwear.
“I was keen to get involved in this project as I didn’t have these opportunities at school.
“I was always pushed towards the academic side which is great but it meant that other options weren’t explored.
“I knew I enjoyed creating but hadn’t realised the business potential – sometimes we need real-life examples to show us the opportunities that might lie ahead.
“If I’ve planted a seed in their minds and allow them to think bigger or differently, then I’m delighted with that.”
One of the pupils taking part is Lily Holmes (12) who commented, “I didn’t think I would be able to do this but with help from ‘KC staff’ I’m so happy with what I’ve done. Can we not just do this every day?”
Meanwhile, Federica Peebles (12) added, “I never thought knitting would be so much fun!”
Parents are also delighted with the outcomes of the project, with Lucy Whelby, mum of Leah Whelby (13) adding, “She is really enjoying the crafting, it’s teaching beneficial skills and she is a lot more confident”.
Chika Inatimi, Project Leader at Front Lounge said, “When we designed Kindred Clothing, we didn’t just want to teach sewing skills. We also aimed to provide learners with a broad range of opportunities through local businesses, from mentoring and training to work experience and employment. That aspiration is now a reality, with a number of our graduates going on to secure jobs and internships with local fashion houses. “
