The students, who are all young apprentices in retail, received a tour and presentation of the facilities, along with invitations to apply for a place at the academy upon the completion of their apprenticeships.

Sara Challinor, apprentice co-ordinator at the college, said: "The young apprentices were the very first in the country to meet the staff and receive a back stage tour of the Fashion Academy.

"The students thought the Academy was amazing with state of the art facilities and excellent progression routes for fashion retail students. They were commended on their behaviour and maturity during the visit and certainly made an impression on the Academy by receiving application forms to apply for the institution upon completion of their apprenticeships."

During their visit to London, the students also enjoyed a visit to Skillsmart Retail, the sector skills council for retail, where they learnt about the latest retail research and skills development, along with how to contribute to improved productivity.

Phil Grey, specialist tutor at the college, added: "The Academy offers a perfect place for fashion students to shine with phenomenal career progression routes into the industry, as well as providing a fantastic opportunity of working with the country's top entrepreneurs."