Charlotte Cameron - Placement Profile
Course: BA (Hons) Fashion Knitwear Design and Knitted Textiles
Placement: Burberry
Placement position: Product Development Assistant – Womens' Collection
Could you tell me about your work placement?
My work placement at Burberry was based within the Womenswear Product Development team. I worked alongside the collection product developers and designers to essentially take the designs from the sketches to the showroom. The scope of my role was huge. I got to see and partake in the development of the high summer 2010 knitwear from start to finish as well as setting up the following AW2010 season. My experience at Burberry was and will continue to be invaluable to me; I now have a strong understanding of developing knitwear as a product, and also a collection, in a high-end commercial environment.
What was the highlight of your placement year?
I had many great experiences whilst at Burberry but I think the most memorable and the most rewarding was overseeing the product development of the collection knitwear on my own for a week whilst the product developer was away. It was nerve wracking but a real chance to put into practice what I had seen and learnt from her and also to prove myself to the rest of the team. This experience gave me a lot of confidence in what I had learnt and in my ability.
Has your placement experience helped you make a decision regarding your future career?
The experience has definitely opened up my eyes to the industry. Although my role wasn't solely creative, I enjoyed having a real say in the development of the knitwear. It was great to see the strong link between design and product development
Would you recommend NTU and your course?
100%. Nottingham is such a great place to be as a design student. Student-friendly and diverse. NTU not only benefits the student whilst undertaking your degree, but also prepares you for what's to come after leaving university, which is so important. Fashion Knitwear Design has such a great balance; I can put into practice my experience and love of textiles, whilst combining this with creating professional products; a personal portfolio and a successful final collection.
