THE BFA FOUNDATION COURSE IN FOOTWEAR TECHNOLOGY
The decline of the UK’s shoe manufacturing base has resulted in a serious skills shortage of experienced and knowledgeable technologists.
In conjunction with the industry and various training organisations, the BFA has created the BFA Foundation Course in Footwear technology, an industry-led technical training syllabus aimed primarily at newcomers to footwear who wish to embark on a technical career path.
Nine companies to date have sent 28 trainees on the first course which took place during 2011. Following feedback from the participants and companies an updated syllabus will run in 2011-12 (following positive feedback from the trade and press).
Here are some comments from people who have completed the course:
“A brilliant course, especially for people new to the footwear industry.”
“The course has given me a detailed insight into the footwear industry which I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to see in the normal part of my job.”
“I’m aiming to become a qualified footwear technician and this course has given me a very good basic understanding of the entire footwear manufacturing process.”
And an employer says :
“This course ensures adequate provision of knowledge pitched at the right levels for both manufacturers and the importing / sourcing companies and should help take the footwear industry forward.”
The ten module course covers subject areas such as Lasts and Fitting, through to Shoe Manufacturing, including Corporate Social Responsibility, Quality Systems and Environmental issues. One of the most popular modules has proved to be a factory visit to one of the six manufacturers who have opened their doors for the BFA.
The British Footwear Association has enlisted accredited external Training Providers for each module and has arranged favorable rates for using them. There will also be situations where the companies are able to provide the appropriate training facilities in-house.
Candidates fulfilling the requirements of the ten module syllabus will not only gain a broad understanding of the main technical requirements of shoe manufacture, but will contribute to the growth and prosperity of their employer. Those passing the course will be presented with the BFA Foundation Certificate in Footwear Technology.
Full details of the course with dates, location and cost of each of the training modules is available by clicking here.
Similarly an application form to join the course can be downloaded by clicking here.
Both the programme and the form can also be obtained by contacting training@britishfootwearassociation.co.uk or phoning 01933 229005.
Question & Answer Topics:
1) Who can participate ?
The Scheme is open to all members of the BFA and all retailers who purchase footwear from BFA members.
2) When does the Scheme run ?
The Scheme generally runs from September / October through to the following summer although candidates can join the scheme at any time.
3) Who pays ?
The Scheme is funded by the candidate’s employer. The cost of developing and administrating the course comes from funds provided by the BFA Training Development Trust and the Cordwainers Livery Company.
4) Do candidates have to complete the full course ?
Candidates do not have to complete every module of the syllabus but can pick and choose as required. However, only candidates who complete the full course will receive the BFA Certificate.
5) Do candidates take exams for the Course ?
Level 1 Foundation Course in Footwear Technology is a non – examination course. Candidates achieve Level 1 and obtain the Certificate by completing the whole syllabus, either via documented in-house training or by attending external training, or by a combination of both. Supporting documentation and feedback forms must also be completed by the candidate where required.