We are excited to announce that two King's Ely students have reached the finals of 'Young Fashion Designer UK' 2025!

Emily Brown, who is in Year 9, and Year 12 pupil, George Long, have both had their incredible Textile Design projects shortlisted in the national competition. The talented duo will be attending the finals at Kent College Pembury in Tunbridge Wells on Saturday 28th June.

'Young Fashion Designer UK' was launched in 2010 by former Head of Textiles at Kent College Pembury, Karen Wintle. Karen wanted Fashion and Textile Design students across the UK to have their work recognised and judged by industry professionals in an annual competition.

The contest encourages young designers to create ground-breaking fabrics that align with the values of sustainability, functionality, and creativity. The theme this year was 'Eco Thread Challenge'. Students had to create a research page, a development page, and a collection of fashion pieces that could be combined to make at least four outfits.

For the next stage of the competition, Emily, George, and other finalists have been invited to create a TikTok-style video presentation, telling the judges more about themselves, their fashion style and vision, and their textiles skills.

On Saturday, Emily and George will not only attend the awards ceremony, but they will also get to display their work, meet and receive guidance from industry professionals, and take part in a two-hour 'upcycle challenge' with other finalists.

King's students have enjoyed success in 'Young Fashion Designer UK' for several years running now. Last year, Poppy Carter, Emillie Jerman, and Rose Vernon-Harcourt reached the finals. All three of them went on to receive Highly Commended Awards, Poppy came runner-up in the Year 9 Upcycle Challenge, and Rose was runner-up in the Year 12 category.

Earlier this year, George was also among six of our A-Level Textile Design students to be shortlisted in the 2025 'Stitch It! Dressmaking Competition'. George won first prize in the 'young stitchers' category for his exquisite jacket. Gia Mee Nguyen Vu was awarded the 'best in competition' prize for her striking lotus flower inspired dress and accessories. 

Congratulations to George and Emily for reaching the finals - good luck, but most importantly, enjoy the experience and opportunities that come with it!