
Caroline Gration, MA
Director
"I was a very arty kid who loved style, but I couldn’t sew, and this frustrated me as I couldn’t manifest all of the designs I drew onto paper. Subsequently, I thought I could never be part of the fashion world I dreamed about.
The Fashion School is now 10+ years old, and my passion is based on my experience as a little girl. The concept danced around in my head for 10 years prior to opening in the back of my flat, while I worked within the industry as a designer, illustrator, design production manager, and consultant. My career spans over 35 years, plus another 6 years of education. Yep, that long! Much of that time was also spent as a senior and visiting fashion lecturer. I enjoyed the mix of industry and education and brought this ethos to the Fashion School. Creativity! Skills! Knowledge!
My children are both very grown up: Betty is a haematologist, and Céleste is a graphic designer at The Financial Times. I’ve always felt at my happiest now that they’ve grown, surrounded by the laughter of your children and teenagers as they build upon their skills, learning to sew, pattern cut, and make their sustainable ideas a reality. They help steer my ideas as we move forward together. Fashion means something different to each of your glorious young creatives, and I celebrate their individuality. Thanks to you, I have the best job ever."

Ellie Crafter
Studio Manager and Tutor
“Hi, I’m Ellie and I'm the Studio Manager and Under 11s Tutor at The Fashion School!
My fashion journey started when my grandma taught me to hand sew at 6. I attended sewing classes for a few years, where I discovered my passion for designing and making clothes. I studied GCSE and A Level Fashion & Textiles and afterwards, I completed a Foundation Diploma in Fashion Design at Morley College, Chelsea.
For the last 5 years whilst studying, I have worked in various aspects of the fashion industry, from Buying and Merchandising, Pattern Cuttiing and working as a Machinist, to Design, Retail and Marketing. In my spare time, I enjoy customising clothing, and up-cycling old clothes, which I post on social media. I enjoy teaching all ages at the Fashion School how to develop their sewing skills, and improve my own knowledge too! “

Jasmine Broadhurst, BA (Hons)
Tutor
"Hello, I am Jasmine! I am currently a student at Central Saint Martins studying BA fashion design, specialising in both knitwear and creative computing.
As a past student of the fashion school, from the age 12, I fell in love with fashion. Caroline and the other tutors have been amazingly supportive through the years, and I gained a place at my dream university. Having been in the student’s position myself not too long ago, it is rewarding to be a part of their fashion journeys. Whether their goal is to study fashion at university or just to make a really stylish dress for a party.
In my own work I often explore digital tools, physical computing, and unique materials, taking a futuristic and experimental approach to fashion design.
Aside from my work at the fashion school I have experience interning for Ashley William’s knitwear department. As well as interning for a freelance designer creating custom garments for clients."

Elena Leshcheva, BA (Hons)
Tutor
Hello, I am Elena! Currently, a student at the University of Westminister studying BA in Fashion Design.
Since I was young I have been surrounded by fashion as my mum (a tailoring teacher) has always involved me in the processes and lessons. But, my journey only really began at college where I found true passion for learning everything about fashion and all it has to offer.
I am particularly interested in pattern cutting as I believe it can help you achieve your dreams - whether that is a party dress or an assignment at university.
In my own work, I often explore historical garments as well as unique materials to create special garments unique to each wearer. I am also passionate about individuality and inclusivity within fashion as everyone should feel comfortable and confident in what they are wearing!
I am very excited to help the next generation to make their fashion dreams come true!

Tiana Esparon, BA (Hons)
Crochet and Sewing Tutor
I'm Tiana, a proud graduate of Kingston School of Art, with a specialization in knit and print. My journey in the world of design has been an exploration of color, texture, and bold fashion.This passion has led me to establish my own crochet brand called Sitrin, where I create a delightful array of funky crochet accessories, each reflecting my unique design sensibilities.Teaching is a calling that resonates deeply with me, as I'm driven by the desire to pass on my knowledge and ignite the creative spark in others.Join me on this exciting journey into the world of crochet, where we'll not only learn together but also revel in the vivid tapestry of color, the tactile beauty of textures, and the bold statements that fashion can make. Let's crochet our way into a world of boundless creativity and inspiration!

Ava Casali
Tutor and Studio Assistant
"Hi, I’m Ava!
I joined The Fashion School in 2020 as a student and have since developed many of the skills I now use in my role as a junior tutor and studio assistant. I love being able to pass on what I’ve learned to help students grow in their fashion journey, especially in our Sunday classes alongside Tiana.
I graduated from the Fashion Retail Academy in 2025 with a diploma in Fashion Design. Alongside this, I work on Savile Row in the trousers department as a finisher, gaining valuable experience in high-quality tailoring and garment construction.
One of my favourite things about teaching at The Fashion School is helping students bring their own ideas to life, whether that’s through sewing garments, experimenting with design, or building confidence with machines and patterns.
Outside of work, I’m passionate about sustainable fashion. In my spare time I upcycle and create garments which I share on social media, focusing on giving new life to existing materials and promoting a more conscious approach to fashion."

Jodie Glen-Martin, BA (Hons)
Threadheads/Quilting and Art Tutor
"Hi, I’m Jodie, an artist and maker with passion for colour, print and pattern. My career started in conservation working on historic design and artworks before moving to Tate where my focus changed to contemporary art.
During this time I was also creating my own work with my background inspiring me to combine traditional techniques and design with contemporary ideas and materials. My paintings and sculpture have been exhibited and sold across the world through galleries, art fairs and my website. I have also worked on commercial projects producing artwork for ceramics and premium skin care products.
More recently my journey with pattern and colour moved away from canvas and more towards textiles and my lifelong passion for quilting grew into an obsession. When both my cats had a patchwork cushion I started Threadheads, a beginners quilting group around my kitchen table. It became so popular I had to turn people away so I was thrilled to join The Fashion School in 2022 to introduce my skills and share my passion to a wider number of people.
In our beautiful quilting studio upstairs at The Fashion School we now run several introduction to quilting courses for adults and run quilting workshops with schools.
We have also set up The Chelsea Quilt Club where graduates of our courses as well as any other keen quilters, can drop in and meet like minded souls and swap tips, stories and fabric."

Meg Turner
Teaching Assistant
"I'm a retired primary school teacher helping at The Fashion School to teach young children and young people the knowlegde to enjoy the creative pleasure and wellbeing that sewing can give. I've been sewing since the age of 6 and it's been a life-long passion. I've made many patchwork quilts, clothes and soft furnishings over the years and I continue to love the craft and want to encourage our younger generations to enjoy all that sewing can offer.

Geri Li
Pattern Cutting Tutor
"Hi I'm Geri. I'm a creative senior pattern cutter with 12+ years experience working in luxury fashion for brands such as The Vampires Wife, Victoria Beckham and Halpern. I am passionate about teaching & mentoring as loves being able to pass my knowledge on and empower others in making their own clothes and advancing their skills whether they be hobbyist or professional within the industry. I created Pattern Wiz to focus on nurturing creativity, self-expression, and slow fashion in a way that supports well-being, sustainability, and personal growth.
My approach to teaching is explaining pattern cutting in a simple way making you feel safe and at ease in the process by reminding you nothing you do is ever 'wrong', it is all learning and part of the process!"

Phoebe Cheshire
Intern
"Hello, I’m Phoebe and I am currently studying Textile Design at Loughborough University. I love pattern printing and garment creation, particularly focusing on upcycling clothing we already have to give it a new life.
I attended The Fashion School many years ago and now have the opportunity to return to relay the valuable skills I learned back to others. I believe in the importance of identity and creativity and particularly that trial and error is so important on your creative journey!

Finn Feez, BA (Hons)
Tutor
"I’m a multidisciplinary designer and product developer working across apparel, product, and sound. Raised in a creative household - my mother a fashion designer & lecturer, my father a graphic & product designer - drawing was my first language, and led to my exploration into the practices and intersections of my chosen mediums.
After studying menswear bespoke tailoring in London, I gained extensive materials knowledge whilst working at William Gee Haberdashery and worked in various roles as a pattern-cutting assistant. Seeking a more diverse design practice, I pivoted into Product & Industrial Design, enrolling as a mature age student at Central Saint Martins, graduating with First Class Honours BA in 2023.
My projects include a modular prosthetic limb system combining rapid, additive manufacture components integrated with a tailored garment - and ‘Synesthete’, an award-winning bio-plastic electro-acoustic synthesizer promoting a more inclusive, ethical music industry.
Since graduating, I’ve balanced roles as freelance pattern cutter and machinist, focusing on design, R&D, and prototyping in garment production, as well as roles as a technician and teacher where I apply a holistic approach. I also work as a product developer for a company called Differently Enabled, a fashion tech brand developing systems and products for people living with a range of disabilities and atypical body morphologies."

Ardriani Sutara, BA (Hons)
Tutor
"Hi, I’m Ardriani! I’m a maker working with sustainable fashion and bespoke accessories, with a love for using vintage materials.
I’ve always been artistic, and my creativity started early, learning to knit with my Nan and sisters and sewing at school, which led me to study fashion. I’ve since worked across fashion design, production, and retail, creating handmade pieces and working closely with others, and I enjoy sharing my skills and creative process.
Alongside my creative background, I’ve studied mental health, and I thoroughly enjoy helping young people build confidence through creativity in a relaxed and supportive environment."

Nina Ayres Machado
Volunteer
"Hi my name is Nina and I am 12 years old and since the age of four, I have been obsessed with fashion and design. I love adjusting patterns and making the fabric work the way I want it to. It has been a dream come true to be able to work with the girls and help them to excel in fashion. Ellie, Elena and Jasmine have been super supportive in helping make my dreams come true . I am currently doing the bronze arts award and looking forward to moving to the silver."

Megan Sykes
Teaching Assistant
"Hi, I’m Megan. I achieved a Grade 9 in GCSE Textiles and am currently studying A levels in Textiles, Business Studies, and Psychology. I have a scholarship in Textiles and Design, which has given me the privilege of mentoring younger students who share my passion for fashion and textiles. Supporting and inspiring others in this way is something I love doing.
I also have hands-on experience working in a bridal store, where I gained valuable insight into dressmaking and alterations.
My love for clothing began at a young age. I was taught to hand sew and knit by my nanny when I was five, and I started machine sewing at eleven. Since then, I’ve continued to develop and refine my skills.
Attending summer classes at The Fashion School was a turning point for me. The experience significantly expanded my abilities in sewing and garment construction, and confirmed that fashion is the right industry for me. I now regularly design, alter, and make my own clothes.
Being invited to teach alongside the incredibly talented and supportive tutors at The Fashion School is a true honour. Caroline and the team are nurturing and endlessly knowledgeable, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to learn from them. I aim to pass on as much of that knowledge as I can to our students."

Olivia Carpenter
Volunteer
"Hello, I’m Olivia. I volunteer at The Fashion School, supporting creative workshops and gaining experience in design and styling. I also volunteer at horse stables, combining responsibility with my love of horses. Outside of volunteering, I’m learning the cello and enjoy life with my energetic cocker spaniel, Luca."

Join our Fashion Family
Internships
If you have a degree in Fashion/Textile Design and some experience teaching children, we would love to hear from you! Please email your CV and cover letter to Caroline.
"Caroline has built a strong management and tutor team - incredibly kind, caring and supportive. They've done so much for my girls' development - from teaching fashion techniques to being a safe and empathetic space for their emotions and worries. It's truly a beautiful and nurturing environment they've created. This dedicated team, led by Caroline, makes all the difference."
The Fashion School are always welcoming young students who would like to take part in a structured internship programme.
You can take part in various roles, including:
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Social Media
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Public Relations
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Marketing
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Personal Assistant
If interested please email Caroline along with your CV and tell us what role you would like to take part in and why.
Teenage Work Experience
At The Fashion School, we have run work experience opportunities for over two years. We think that it is important that all students on our work experience scheme are kept busy with a varied agenda that will enhance their skills suited to their individual needs.
Please note: Some sewing machine experience is necessary to partake in our structured work experience programme.
You can either contact us direct or ask your school to do so. We have both public liability and employer’s insurance.























