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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the design process for Girlswear, from trend research to product selection.
- Company: Join Next, a leading UK fashion retailer with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, bonuses, and access to health and wellbeing services.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, creative environment while working with talented designers.
- Qualifications: Studying Fashion or Textile Design, with a passion for Girlswear trends.
- Other info: Submit a digital portfolio to showcase your creativity!
Overview
Placement Trainee Designer – Kidswear – 12 month FTC. We have an exciting opportunity for a student seeking a placement year to join our Girlswear division for 12 months. This role will give you the chance to work across a wide variety of product areas, gaining valuable hands-on experience within one of the most dynamic parts of our business.
The Girlswear team design and develop new ranges, managing everything from trend prediction and concept design through to technical development and product selection. At Next, we’re proud to be market leaders in childrenswear, known for our exceptional attention to detail, creativity and strong sales performance. It’s a fast-paced, highly creative environment where you’ll see how we adapt to different brand DNAs and maintain the highest standards across all our ranges.
During your placement you’ll have the opportunity to go on inspiration shopping trips, meet with suppliers, and take on a high level of responsibility from day one. You’ll work alongside our talented designers, gaining exposure to multiple categories and building the skills to help you grow and thrive in your future career.
The day to day
- Provide support throughout the whole design process from planning new ranges through to product selection.
- Collate design research, identify key trends, and prepare and update design boards for each season as required.
- Collaborate with Print and Graphics team to ensure cohesive and creative design development.
- Assist with the production of design packs where required.
- Provide administrative support to the Design Team, taking responsibility for tasks such as day to day department requests, colour matching and archiving fabrics.
About You
We would love you to be currently studying a degree in Fashion Design, Textile Design or a similar discipline, and looking for a placement year opportunity.
A strong interest in fashion with a particular passion for Girlswear and Womenswear trends, and an eye for what inspires the next big looks.
Aware of the influence of social media trends and able to draw inspiration from a variety of sources.
A clear communicator who builds positive relationships across the team, and confident working both collaboratively and independently.
Reliable, proactive and flexible in your approach, with a genuine enthusiasm to learn and grow within a fast-paced creative environment.
Proficient in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, with a willingness to keep developing your technical skills.
Experience using AI tools to assist in designing garments would be desirable.
As part of the application process we require you to submit a screen resolution, digital portfolio. Applications without a portfolio will not be considered.
About Us
You know Next, but did you know we’re a FTSE-100 retail company employing over 35,000 people across the UK and Ireland. We’re the UK’s 2nd largest fashion retailer and for Kidswear we’re the market leader. At the last count we have over 500 stores, plus the Next Online and it’s now possible to buy on-line from over 70 countries around the world. We’ve gone global!
About The Team
- 25% off most NEXT, MADE*, Lipsy*, Gap* and Victoria\’s Secret* products (*when purchased through NEXT)
- Company performance based bonus
- Sharesave scheme
- On-site Nursery available; OFSTED outstanding in all areas
- 10% off most partner brands & up to 15% off Branded Beauty
- Early VIP access to sale stock
- Access to fantastic discounts at our Staff Shops
- Restaurants with great food at amazing prices
- Access a digital GP and other free health and wellbeing services
- Free on-site parking
- Financial Wellbeing – Save, track and enhance your financial wellbeing
- Apprenticeship – Grow and develop on the job whilst gaining a qualification
- Direct to Work – Discount online and instore, collect your items the next day for free from your place of work or local store
- Support Networks – Access to Network Groups to empower and celebrate each other
- Wellhub – Discounted flexible monthly gym memberships, with apps, PT sessions and more
Conditions apply to all benefits. These benefits are discretionary and subject to change.
We aim to support all candidates during the application process and are happy to provide workplace adjustments when necessary. Should you need support with your application due to a disability or long-term condition, feel free to get in touch with us by email headoffice_careers@next.co.uk (please include \”Workplace Adjustments\” in the subject line), or call us on 0116 284 2486 and leave a voicemail.
Seniority level: Internship
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
Industries: Retail
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Leicester, England, United Kingdom 3 weeks ago
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Placement Trainee Designer - Kidswear - 12 month FTC employer: Next
Contact Detail:
Next Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Placement Trainee Designer - Kidswear - 12 month FTC
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the fashion industry, attend events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure your digital portfolio is up to date and highlights your best work. When you apply through our website, include a link to it so we can see your creativity and skills right away.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its latest trends. Be ready to discuss how your design ideas align with our brand's vision. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about what we do!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in making a lasting impression. It shows your enthusiasm and professionalism, which we definitely appreciate at Next.
We think you need these skills to ace Placement Trainee Designer - Kidswear - 12 month FTC
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Portfolio: Make sure to include a screen resolution digital portfolio with your application. This is your chance to showcase your creativity and design skills, so pick your best work that reflects your passion for Girlswear!
Tailor Your Application: When writing your application, don’t just send a generic cover letter. Tailor it to highlight your interest in Kidswear and how your skills align with the role. We want to see your personality shine through!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use simple language and avoid jargon. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make it easy for us to understand your passion and qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Next
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
Make sure to bring a digital portfolio that showcases your best work. Highlight projects that reflect your understanding of Girlswear trends and your design process. This is your chance to impress them with your creativity and attention to detail!
✨Research the Brand
Before the interview, dive deep into Next's brand identity and their current Kidswear collections. Understanding their style and market position will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Prepare for Trend Discussions
Be ready to discuss current fashion trends, especially in Girlswear. Think about how social media influences these trends and be prepared to share your insights. This shows that you’re not just passionate about fashion but also aware of its evolving landscape.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since clear communication is key in this role, practice articulating your thoughts on design concepts and collaboration. You might be asked how you would work with the Print and Graphics team, so think of examples that demonstrate your ability to work well with others.