Course Overview

This occupation is found in the manufacturing sector, in the production of textile items using various fabrics and materials such as canvas, cotton, leather, silk, vinyl, wool, woven and non-woven. Production ranges from bespoke to mass-produced items and includes, handbags, shoes, clothing, tents, industrial textiles, and numerous home wear products.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to cut specified material components by hand or by machine using templates or measurements and then prepare the components for assembly. In preparation for cutting, a material cutter will select the materials following instructions, check the materials for quality issues, and plan, measure and calculate material usage ensuring waste minimalisation. They are then ready to cut components to meet the required quality, quantity and specifications. They have a role in ensuring effective handover to the next stage, including bundling, labelling and completing records and documentation such as production/cutting sheets or work dockets. Material cutters are also responsible for dealing with quality issues and providing re-cuts as requested by the production team. In order to keep the process running smoothly, they maintain specialist machines and equipment, for example changing blades and chains, sharpening shears and blades, cleaning and removing lint and maintaining automated tables/machines.

Material cutters work in a production environment, often in a dedicated cutting room. They must have an eye for detail and be able to distinguish between colours and patterns. The role can be physically demanding, involving lifting heavy rolls of fabric and standing for long periods of time.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with other cutters, depending on the size and structure of the company. They will work under the supervision of a manager or supervisor and may interact with personnel from other teams such as production, maintenance, and stock control. They may also come into contact with external suppliers or customers.

Course Duration

Up to 14 months (ie a practical training period of 12 months, followed by an End Point Assessment (EPA) period of up to 2 months).

Entry Requirements

You will have to take a Skills Scan to ensure your current level of maths and English is at the required level.

Assessment

• Observation with questions
• Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence
• Multiple-choice test

Progression

This role may be a gateway to further career opportunities in this sector, such as management or senior support roles, or to further study.

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