ABOUT US
NWSD has recently celebrated 25 years of training South Africa’s top designers and fashion professionals, such as Gert Johan Coetzee, Anel Botha and many more.
From 2013, NWSD provided the South African fashion industry aspirants the opportunity to gain certification from the internationally recognised City and Guilds in fashion design or fashion buying and communications. As per the DHET, it is unfortunate that City and Guilds
is no longer recognized in South Africa as of 2018 – this has provided an opportunity for NWSD to reinvent the brand and become aligned to the HEQSF at an appropriate NQF level. Through research and commitment, NWSD has designed a 3 year course IN FASHION DESIGN which has been submitted for accreditation. An additional, one-year fulltime courses are extracted from the 3-year fulltime course. These new courses are presented from January 2023.
NWSD is Accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC) as an International Centre.
The achievement was awarded after the school underwent a rigorous evaluation process as well as an inspection by the BAC Inspectors from the UK. This International Accreditation is
just one step in ensuring that the school’s approach to teaching and learning is recognised and quality assured providing our students with a better platform to launch their careers in the fashion industry.
The British Accreditation Council (BAC) provides a comprehensive quality assurance scheme for independent further and higher education in the UK. BAC accreditation is recognised the world over by students, agents, and government officials as the clearest mark of educational quality in the private sector. The BAC is a member organisation of the European Association for Quality Assurance (ENQA) in Higher Education.
North West School Of Design aims to provide the ever evolving fashion industry with high performing entrepreneurial graduates that show distinction, excellence and continuously develop mastery levels in technical skill sets and business acumen to achieve success professionally in the fashion world.
OUR VISION:
- To impart comprehensive technical and entrepreneurial based education with practical experiences that addresses all aspects of the fashion industry.
- To produce culturally diverse graduates who can compete globally and succeed intellectually and professionally in the walk of life of the hurtle fashion industry.
- To forever be an esteemed, credible and impactful contributor to the global fashion industry, enriching the lives of others through distinct personal growth, and high-performance culture.
NWSD does not only offer an exceedingly recognized 3-year course in fashion but also offers various short courses, online courses, and portable skills training.
OUR FOUNDER & HEAD OF INSTITUTION
Marlene Oosthuizen, the visionary founder and Head of Institution of North West School of Design, is renowned for her dedication to fostering creative excellence and entrepreneurial spirit in the world of fashion. With numerous awards to her name, decades of experience, and a passion for innovative education, Marlene has shaped NWSD into a leading institution that empowers aspiring designers to master both the artistry and business of fashion. Her dynamic leadership, commitment to quality, and deep industry insight continue to inspire students and staff alike, ensuring NWSD remains at the forefront of fashion education.
OUR FULLTIME COURSES
The 3-year Fulltime course in Fashion aims to provide the technical skillsets and practical techniques. The course aims to equip aspirant fashion designers with the mind-set and skill set that enables them to conceptualize ideas, create blueprint patterns and, construct apparel
by applying finishing techniques to production processes. It also aims to provide understanding of the core theoretical principles and practices that are integrated into the business of fashion, encouraging an entrepreneurial mindset able to justify the impact of the fashion world in driving international markets and globalization. Graduates entering the industry have a variety of career options available and gain valuable exposure through real-world work integrated learning experiences throughout the three years.
The 1-year Fashion Design course is the first year extracted from the 3-year course, provides a structured introduction into the world of fashion design and an understanding of the business of fashion. The course equips participants with practical skillsets and theoretical understanding of fashion design principles. By using the award-winning X!act Design Patternmaker™, you are able to create patterns and then construct apparel you have designed. You are also equipped with the insights needed to succeed in the business of fashion and encouraged to develop an entrepreneurial mindset. Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to further your education by gaining access to the 3-year for those who wish to further advance their skillsets and aptitude. Graduates entering the industry have a variety of career options available and gain valuable exposure through real-world work integrated learning experiences at the NWSD Platinum Fashion Festival
OUR PART-TIME AND SHORT SKILLS COURSES
NWSD offers a variety of short courses, such as Part-time Fashion Design, Sewing, Runway Modelling, etc. In the efforts to make our short courses more affordable, the NWSD short courses are offered as non-credit bearing courses, as these courses are not unit-standard
based. Student therefore receive a non-credit bearing certificate after completing the short course.
OUR ONLINE ACADEMY
Learn patternmaking in your own time with the help of the award-winning X!act Design Patternmaker, a tool used for drafting basic block patterns that are accurate, accessible and cost effective. This patternmaking tool was initially designed to address identified needs of North West School of Design students, but the Patternmaker is now used by many fashion professionals and fashion schools.
X!ACT DESIGN PATTERNMAKER
In 2003, extensive market research and product development was done and the X!act Design Patternmaker, designed by Marlene Oosthuizen was launched at the SA International Trade Expo (SAITEX) on 30 September 2003. This innovative product attracted much attention and publicity in Business Day, Engineering News and Pursuit Clothing and Textile Magazine, the official mouthpiece of the Clothing Industry in South Africa. It was also hailed by the SAITEX Media Desk as the most innovative product of the exhibition and was given extensive coverage on the SAITEX website. The X!act Design Patternmaker received commendation from the SABS Design Prototype Awards in 2003.
Since then, the X!act Design Patternmaker has gone from being a teaching tool to becoming indispensable technology for home sewers, entrepreneurs, Community Based sewing groups, small factories and professional fashion designers alike. Because the outcome of basic block deigns conforms to industry standards, any existing knowledge or publication on style manipulation can be used to create exclusive fashion designs.
Market response has been very positive, and sales to date have far exceeded projected targets, The X!act Design Patternmaker was featured as a special product with the largest mail order book club in the country and was selected to feature as promotion item by a leading local women’s magazine. Development Agencies have sponsored the product for community-based sewing groups and small factories; home sewers use it with glee and orders f rom across our borders started coming in by word-of-mouth advertising.
Many people have the creative desire to design their own clothing within them, but most are deterred by fear that the dream will turn into a nightmare – because they do not know where to start or how to ensure that the outfit will fit them!
OUR PORTABLE SKILLS TRAINING
The NWSD Portable Skills Training is an offsite, short course training, composing of sewing, sketching etc, done on your own turf. This training is designed to suit the needs of the group which should consist of no less than 8 individuals.
Contact admissions@nwsd.co.za for a quote on your group training needs
OUR PLATINUM FASHIOIN FESTIVAL
The highly esteemed, Platinum Fashion Festival was founded and is hosted by the NWSD, with students and staff collaborating as event managers and designers. The Platinum Fashion Festival has grown into one of the leading fashion industry events of every year since its
birth.
The Platinum Fashion Festival has evolved into one of the most prestigious events in the fashion calendar. Initially a small showcase, it has grown remarkably into a large-scale extravaganza that now spans two distinct shows: one for emerging designers and another dedicated to the creative talents of students. This format provides unparalleled opportunities for designers to showcase their work to a discerning audience. Industry leaders, acting as both moderators and headhunters, attend the festival, scouting for promising talent to propel into the global fashion arena. The event draws a sizable and diverse audience from far and wide, making it a vibrant hub for creativity, networking, and innovation in the fashion world.
OUR CAMPUS CAFÉ – NIX CAMPUS CAFÉ
Our Campus Café is a dedicated haven for NWSD students and staff—a relaxed and welcoming spot to unwind, connect, and recharge between classes. No longer open to the public, the café is a true student sanctuary, offering cozy corners, fresh coffee, and tasty meals designed to fuel your creativity and keep you energized as you pursue your fashion dreams. Whether you’re catching up with friends, brainstorming design ideas, or simply taking a break from your busy schedule, this is your space to relax and feel at home on campus.
OUR CAMPUS CLINIC
Our groundbreaking NWSD Wellness Clinic, overseen by a medial registered nurse,
provides a safe, private space on college premises for students and staff to receive medical
attention.
Services Offered:
- First Aid Care: Immediate assistance for minor injuries or health concerns.
- Student Counselling: A supportive environment for mental well-being.
- Regular Medical Screening: Ensuring proactive health management.
- Medical consultations
- Family planning
- Over the counter medication packs
OUR NETWORKING – FASHION TALK
In 2012, NWSD expanded its influence within the fashion industry by establishing a dynamic brand dedicated to fostering professional growth and collaboration. This initiative is known for hosting networking events, insightful discussion panels, and expertly curated masterclasses. Through these platforms, students, alumni, and industry leaders connect to exchange ideas, explore emerging trends, and participate in meaningful conversations that drive the future of fashion. The brand’s ambition is to bridge the gap between education and industry, empowering participants to gain invaluable insights, forge lasting relationships, and enhance their professional trajectories. These gatherings have become vital fixtures on the NWSD calendar, nurturing a vibrant network of creative minds and setting the stage for innovation and excellence in fashion
Our monthly newsletter, NWSD NEWS, serves as a vibrant platform capturing the pulse of the North West School of Design. Packed with updates, inspiring stories, and industry insights, it connects students, alumni, and professionals to the latest events within the school and the fashion world at large. Whether highlighting student achievements, showcasing innovative designs, or sharing exclusive event recaps, NWSD NEWS is your go-to source for staying informed and feeling inspired.