HNC/HND Costume for Stage and Screen

Higher National qualifications have been developed by SQA in partnership with colleges, universities and industry - so employers recognise that they provide sound evidence of ability.

The unit-based structure supports flexibility. A unit is typically 40 hours of timetabled learning.

There is a limited choice of optional units which will enable centres to offer courses tailored to meet local needs.

This HN provides progression routes to further study and/or employment.

The HNC and HND in Costume for Stage and Screen are suitable for a wide range of candidates who have an interest in the industry and wish to pursue a career in costume production and design. This will include:

• school leavers
• adult returners to education
• individuals in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
• people who wish to start their own business

Access

As with all SQA qualifications, entry is at the discretion of the centre. Examples of formal entry qualifications include:

• appropriate groupings of National units, eg a National Certificate in Art and Design
• any two National Qualifications at Higher A/B (English desirable)
• an SVQ at Level 2 or 3 in a relevant area
• relevant work experience

Applicants without formal qualifications can be accepted at the discretion of the centre and should be able to show evidence of their practical sewing skills.

Progression and employment

Learners who achieve an HNC Costume for Stage and Screen can progress to the HND in Costume for Stage and Screen (GL43 16).

HNCs and HNDs can provide progression to degree-level study. While there are no formal articulation agreements in place, successful candidates have progressed to relevant degree programmes, eg Costume Design and Construction (Queen Margaret University), Fashion Production and Design (Heriot Watt University), and Art History and English Literature (University of Aberdeen).

Candidates progressing into employment are likely to be employed initially as wardrobe assistants which could lead on to the following positions:

• wardrobe supervisor
• wardrobe manager
• costume designer
• freelance contract work for film and TV

Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.

Centres without devolved authority will have to come forward for approval and should contact SQA¿s Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA¿s general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Guide to Approval.

Each individual unit specification gives detailed information on the evidence requirements and approaches to assessment for each unit.

This is a practical-based qualification and learners will be taught and assessed on practical skills such as pattern cutting and construction, together with decorative techniques used to embellish costume. Ancient craft techniques and faster methods of replicating them for integration and decoration of costume are also covered.

The more theoretical aspects of costume design and interpretation, and the history of costume and theatre, will be assessed through submission of portfolios, compilations and critiques.

Theatre and museum visits will be useful in informing and supporting learners¿ study.