SUPPORTING SCHOOLS
At David Nieper, we believe that confidence starts with opportunity, and opportunity begins with education. As a family business rooted in the town of Alfreton, Derbyshire, we are committed to empowering individuals to be the best they can be – not just through the clothes we create but by helping nurture talent and potential in our community and beyond.
Our education sponsorships reflect our values of honesty, kindness, teamwork, ambition and pride. Many of our employees at all levels were born and bred in the local area, and this is part of our way of giving back to the community.
By supporting schools, training programs, and universities, we’re investing in the next generation of creators, innovators and leaders – people who will shape not only our industry but the future of Britain.
Empowering Young Talent at the David Nieper Academy
In the heart of our hometown, the David Nieper Academy provides an inspiring education for over 850 pupils aged 11–18. Combining academic excellence with practical, real-world experiences, the Academy helps students to build the confidence and skills to take on any challenge – whether they choose to pursue higher education, start an apprenticeship, or embark on a fulfilling career.
As the first secondary school in the UK sponsored by a fashion business, the Academy reflects our belief in the power of collaboration between employers and educators. By supporting this innovative venture, we’re helping create a brighter future for our community and the wider fashion industry.
Click here to find out more about David Nieper Academy
Building on this success, we have gone on to sponsor several other academies in the area. The model has been transformative, turning failing schools into Ofsted top-rated institutions that are now always oversubscribed, with parents clamouring to get a place for their child. Its success has sparked nationwide interest, inspiring others to adopt and replicate this approach.
In addition to sponsoring several academies, we actively support primary schools in our local community. One of our most popular initiatives is the annual Fashion for Free! competition. This creative event encourages children to design and make wearable items using recycled materials from their homes or school. Along with prizes and awards, participants enjoy a guided tour of our Derbyshire sewing rooms and design studio with their classmates – a truly inspiring experience.
For more details, please contact rebecca.alton@davidnieper.co.uk
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Building careers in British fashion
We believe high-quality vocational training is essential for helping individuals achieve their ambitions and ensuring the growth and success of the British fashion industry, right here in the UK. That’s why we actively support vocational training through partnerships with universities and colleges. We also offer work experience placements and internships for school sixth formers and undergrads, in a wide range of departments from sewing to IT and marketing.
We also devised the government backed Apprenticeship scheme that is now the recognised national standard.
Find out more about Apprenticeships.
Undergraduate scholarships
We collaborate with the University of Derby and Chesterfield College to support fashion and textiles students. Each year, we host an Annual Design Award, challenging students to create a womenswear capsule collection that showcases both technical excellence and creative flair. Winners are selected by David Nieper experts and receive cash prizes as well as the opportunity for a paid internship, giving them valuable industry experience.
Together, these initiatives add up to a brighter future for individuals, communities and British industries. By empowering the next generation with confidence, skills, and opportunities, we’re helping to ensure that British fashion continues to thrive for years to come. .
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NATIONALLY RECOGNISED TRAINING
At David Nieper, we believe apprenticeships are the cornerstone of nurturing talent and preserving the craftsmanship that defines British fashion.
We are an industry leader in luxury garment making skills training and pioneered the Government’s national fashion apprenticeships. The standards we set and programme we devised are now used nationwide.
We currently run two nationally recognised apprenticeships at our Ofsted-approved Sewing Academy: the Level 2 Sewing Machinist and Level 3 Garment Maker apprenticeship. As well as formal study and exams, these provide hands-on training in traditional techniques using the latest state-of-the-art machinery, surrounded by dozens of experienced makers to learn from.
With our Sewing Academy at the heart of our factory, this is your chance to earn while mastering the skills that make British fashion truly exceptional. If you’re ready to begin your journey, email rebecca.applications@davidnieper.co.uk to request an application form – we’d love to hear from you!
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