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My name is Rose Hibbert, and I am a 2024 graduate from BA (Hons) Costume Construction at University Centre South Essex.  

I have been sewing for over 50 years. I initially started my career in fashion but later moved into the technology space. I was drawn to my degree with University Centre South Essex because I wanted to explore the creative side of my brain again. The course’s partnership with the Royal Ballet and Opera was a massive selling point for me, as it added real credibility.  

During my time on the degree, I used my costumes to communicate my thoughts on societal problems, such as the environment, mental health challenges exacerbated by Covid and the challenges women face working in male dominated environments.

My Escamilla costume, for which I won the RBO prize of Technical Ability, incorporated elements of recycling and tailoring while exploring the narrative of the battle of women working in a man’s world. Escamilla’s plight being not a battle fought in the bullring (as per Carmen's love match, Escamilo) but in the boardroom. 

This story was of particular interest to me as I had a long career in Cyber Security in the city prior to starting the course and felt I had to battle every day to enable successful communication. My city 'costume' became a kind of battle shield. The costume's main influence was high fashion and designer wear, favoured by many CEOs in the financial sector.

The course helped me gain confidence in a range of different techniques and processes, and encouraged me to be professional at all times – especially with fittings and when dealing with designers. 

I now have a company that alters bridalwear. The owner of the store invited me for an interview after reading my dissertation on how media has affected bridalwear. I’ve found the patience and persistence I learnt on the BA (Hons) Costume Construction course has served me well in my role, as it can be quite challenging when brides lose a substantial amount of weight prior to their dress completion. 

The course has given me the credentials and confidence to make wedding dress alterations, which is a huge responsibility. I’m continuing to learn and I’m supported by the course tutors until this day. 

I’m honoured to have my costumes on display as part of the 10th Anniversary Exhibition at the Royal Ballet and Opera in Covent Garden. I loved every minute of the BA (Hons) Costume Construction course and learnt a lot about myself throughout the degree.

For anyone considering applying, I would say that you’re never too old to learn something new or to boost your confidence. Go and visit the exhibition – you might learn something new, not just about sewing, but about the world around you.

Join us and celebrate 10 years of exceptional craftsmanship at the UCSE BA (Hons) Costume Construction 10th Anniversary Exhibition. 

Open to the public and hosted at the Royal Ballet and Opera in Covent Garden, this inspiring exhibition showcases outstanding graduate work and achievements from the past decade. 

Tuesday 10 March  -  Sunday 22 March
Linbury Foyer, Royal Opera House, Bow Street, London, WC2E 9DD

My name is Poppy Hillman-Crouch and I am a class of 2024 graduate from BA (Hons) Costume Construction at University Centre South Essex. 

I discovered the course because I went on the Royal Ballet and Opera House tour of the state-of-the-art Bob and Tamar Manoukian Production Workshop tour at High House Production Park. I just loved seeing all the costumes and finding out how all the different elements and departments come together to make a production. 

I was super excited to go to a University Centre with such vast access to the Royal Ballet and Opera store and archive. I wanted to study a course that allowed me to stay close to home while also getting that invaluable workroom experience. BA (Hons) Costume Construction ticked every box. 

I developed a variety of technical and professional skills on my degree that I now use every day as a freelance costume maker and Wardrobe Assistant at Mercury Theatre in Colchester. The most basic technical skills are vital, from using an industry sewing machine and overlocker accurately – as majority of my work is done on these machines – to fitting etiquette, taking measurements correctly and pattern drafting.  

I loved the tailoring unit we undertook as a part of the degree. In my third year, this led me to make a 1950s RAF uniform and Georgian riding habit to fit my Grandparents. They joined me on campus for fittings and photos. It was really interesting to have the opportunity to tailor for different body types, it developed by making skills and it was of course so special to have the opportunity to make for them. 

My time on the degree prepared me well for the industry. Learning from experienced tutors, we gained a lot of insight into technical skills but also professional skills needed to succeed like: 

• Building a portfolio and website
• How to best market yourself to secure work after graduation
• Potential side hustles between projects 
• career progression. 

We also benefited from a lot of visits and talks from industry professionals which gave us great understanding of the many routes our careers could take following graduation. 

My first role after graduation was a Freelance Costume Maker for the Mercury Theatre in Colchester, a 14-week role which ended up being extended for a further 10 weeks as wardrobe maintenance/assistant for the pantomime The New Adventures of Peter Pan. The BA (Hons) Costume Construction course was instrumental in securing the role, as I had previously completed my work experience at the theatre as a part of the degree. I was then asked back to make for two more pantomimes before graduation. This year will mark my fifth year of making for the Mercury Theatre pantomime and I couldn’t be happier. 

I have continued to work on a variety of theatre shows, freelance makes and film work since graduating. I’ve been making all sorts; from creature headdresses and replicate film costumes to ballet bodices and the sparkles of Panto. Most of my work currently is freelance costume making with a sprinkle a bit of theatre dressing and wardrobe assisting. I love how my career allows me to work on a variety of different projects and meet so many lovely, talented people and companies along the way. I am currently working as a freelance maker and wardrobe assistant at the Mercury Theatre, Colchester on their new production of The Manningtree Witches - in association with Frantic Assembly, supported by Eleanor Lloyd Productions, Eilene Davidson Productions and Mark Gordon Pictures. 

I’ve worked on so many exciting projects since graduating from University Centre South Essex.  Last summer, I work on film replica costumes for Woodsted Studios exhibition which was incredibly. I also have been making Junior Chorus costumes for Mercury Theatre which are super fun. 

My time on the BA (Hons) Costume Construction course has 100% shaped my career. I learned such valuable skills that without, I wouldn’t be where I am in my career today.  It was such a supportive and close-knit course with very talented lecturers and super supportive peers that I am still close with today. It helped me become a costume maker and get into industry. 

The course’s partnership with the Royal Ballet and Opera is incredibly important. It gave me such an insight into my future, and being alumni of a university centre with such strong links gave me an added edge when progressing into the industry. 

For anyone considering applying to the BA (Hons) Costume Construction course, I would say to just do it!  You definitely won’t regret it - it gives you a great package of skills to go out into industry, whilst also allowing you to be creative. You choose the costumes you make and get to focus on the areas you love and enjoy. The lectures are super knowledgeable and supportive. 

Everyone should go see the upcoming Ba (Hons) Costume Construction exhibition to celebrate such an amazing achievement. It’s really exciting that the course is turning 10 years old and the exhibition is a real celebration of all the students that have gone through the course. I can’t wait to see it!

Join us and celebrate 10 years of exceptional craftsmanship at the UCSE BA (Hons) Costume Construction 10th Anniversary Exhibition. 

Open to the public and hosted at the Royal Ballet and Opera in Covent Garden, this inspiring exhibition showcases outstanding graduate work and achievements from the past decade. 

Tuesday 10 March  -  Sunday 22 March
Linbury Foyer, Royal Opera House, Bow Street, London, WC2E 9DD

My name is Claire Burgoyne, I studied Access to Art and Design followed by a BA (Hons) Fine Art at South Essex Colleges Group (SECG) and University Centre South Essex (UCSE), and I graduated with a First Class BA (Hons) Fine Art.

I chose to study at SECG and UCSE because of its convenient location and a recommendation. It proved to be the right decision, offering a supportive environment where I was able to fully develop my creative practice.

Before returning to education, I managed a breakfast club in a primary school and worked in a café. My journey into higher education marked a significant change in direction, allowing me to pursue a long-standing passion for art and creativity.

Since completing my degree, I have been developing my practice as an artist. I was selected as an Artist in Residence at Leigh Community Centre, where I facilitated community art groups and engaged with local audiences. I have also exhibited my work in a number of exhibitions, including The Essex Open at the Beecroft Gallery. I am now working towards further study, with the goal of completing an MA in Fine Art or an equivalent qualification.

During my time at SECG and UCSE I developed confidence in public speaking and learned how to use digital tools and applications that were previously unfamiliar to me. The course also strengthened my writing, presentation, and communication skills, particularly when discussing my own artistic practice. In addition, I gained valuable curation experience and a strong understanding of the language of Fine Art, giving me the confidence to work in gallery environments.

Beyond professional skills, my time at college had a lasting impact on my personal development. It helped me build confidence and resilience, and I formed meaningful connections with others who shared my passion for art.

My favourite memory from my time at UCSE is the overall experience of being part of such a creative and supportive environment. Spending time in the studio, taking part in critiques and presentations, attending artist talks, and visiting galleries all played a role in shaping my development and made the journey very enjoyable.

For me, the best thing about higher education particularly studying Fine Art is the opportunity it gives you to grow and evolve your artistic practice. It encourages exploration, critical thinking, and the development of your own voice as an artist.

I would highly recommend SECG and UCSE, the tutors are incredibly supportive and always make time to help and the smaller class sizes create a more personal and encouraging learning environment. Tutors such as Matthew Chambers, Andrew Graves, and Cherry Sandover were especially knowledgeable and instrumental in my development.

My greatest achievement, aside from my children, is earning a First Class Degree in Fine Art. During my studies, I was also proud to receive the Hannah Miller Award (2024) and the St Mark’s Green Award for Sustainable Ideas in the Arts (2025), which recognised my work and commitment to my practice.

My journey through higher education was not without its challenges. In my final year, I was diagnosed with bowel cancer. Despite this, I was determined to continue and completed my degree just before undergoing surgery. Although I was unable to attend a satellite exhibition in Walthamstow, my fellow students ensured my work was included, reflecting the strong sense of community and support throughout the course.

Looking ahead, my ambition is to continue developing my artistic practice and complete an MA in Fine Art or an equivalent qualification. I am excited to see how my work evolves and where this journey will take me next.

My name is Lisa Dear, and I graduated in 2024 from the BA (Hons) Costume Construction Degree at the University Centre South Essex (UCSE), delivered in partnership with the Royal Ballet and Opera and UAL.

After undergoing cancer treatment in 2017, I felt a strong desire to do something purely for myself that would open the door to a possible career change. When I saw an advert for the course, I knew it was worth exploring. The idea of expanding my sewing knowledge while gaining a degree in something I truly loved felt like the perfect opportunity. 

Studying costume, rather than fashion, really spoke to me. After attending an open day at the Purfleet studio and seeing the displayed costumes – including a tutu - I knew I wanted to learn how to create pieces like that. The partnership with the Royal Ballet and Opera was a huge draw. Having access to the costume stores of such a world-renowned institution was a huge attraction, and meeting the tutors further confirmed it was the right choice for me. 

Practical considerations were important too. I needed to continue working alongside my studies, and with the Grays and Purfleet studios located on my train line, the course was accessible and manageable around my job. 

Throughout the degree, I developed a wide range of technical skills including pattern cutting, tailoring, tutu construction, fabric dyeing, and interpreting a design into a finished garment. 

One of the highlights of my studies was undertaking a work placement at the Royal Ballet and Opera in Purfleet, where I worked on tutus for Cinderella. Logging my time during projects also gave me valuable insight into time management and how to charge clients appropriately – an essential professional skill in an industry where many costumiers are self-employed. 

My personal project was another standout experience. I collaborated with students from hair and makeup, photography, and other courses, as well as booking space at The Backstage Centre to complete my final shoot. It gave me a real understanding of the teamwork required to bring a creative vision to life. Seeing my work displayed publicly for the Royal Ballet and Opera Prize, and later at the end-of-year show with family, friends, industry professionals and the public in attendance, was incredibly special. 

I quickly realised that university was quite different from what I had expected. It’s very self-directed;, you truly get out what you put in. With the support and encouragement of the tutors, and a personal drive to create beautiful costumes and achieve strong results, I found myself pushed in directions I hadn’t thought possible. That challenge helped build my confidence and expand my abilities far beyond what I imagined at the start of the course.  

My journey wasn’t straightforward. I originally began the course in 2018 but had to postpone my studies due to medical reasons. I restarted in 2022 and completed the degree in 2024, despite undergoing major surgery in my final months, and working 26 hours a week in an office role. There were times I didn’t think finishing would be possible, but every obstacle was overcome. I completed additional English qualifications during my first year, reduced my working hours with the support of my employer, and received financial support through student finance to make it achievable. 

Although I’m not currently working full-time in the costume industry due to ongoing health and financial considerations, I’ve completed several small commissions for friends and family. One of my favourites was creating an Angel Gabriel costume and wings for my friend’s daughter’s nativity – a project I’m especially proud of. 

One of my greatest honours has been having my Costume in Art piece selected to be displayed as part of the course’s 10th anniversary celebration at the Royal Ballet and Opera in Covent Garden. To know that my work will be seen by the public in such an iconic venue is something I never imagined when I first applied. 

While I may not yet have a costume career, earning a degree in collaboration with the Royal Ballet and Opera and UAL is one of my proudest achievements. It’s the dream I never knew I had. 

If you’re considering applying to the BA (Hons) Costume Construction, I would absolutely encourage you to have it as one of your options. The facilities and tutors are excellent, and the exhibition is a wonderful way to see the range of skills students develop and to hear more about their experiences. 

It’s one of the hardest but best things I’ve ever done and I’m grateful I was able to start, pause, and ultimately finish what I began. 

My name is Charley Finding and I am a Class of 2020 First-Class BA (Hons) Costume Construction graduate.  

What initially drew me to apply for the BA (Hons) Costume Construction course was the idea of bringing together two of my greatest passions: creating cosplay costumes and Musical Theatre. I have always been interested in the performing arts, particularly what happens behind the scenes, so this course felt like the perfect opportunity to turn my creativity into a career.  

The partnership with the Royal Ballet and Opera gave me confidence that this course would be an opportunity to learn from an incredible area of the industry.  Ultimately the connection is the reason I was able to break into such an incredible industry, one that keeps me excited and inspired every single day. The course and its partnership opened the door to an amazing future, and I’m incredibly proud of myself for taking that leap.  

During my time on the course, I developed a wide range of technical and interpersonal skills that I now use every day in my professional life. I learned how to communicate effectively within a studio and workshop environment, manage my time efficiently and consistently work to a high standard of finish.   

One of the highlights of my second year was a creative pattern cutting project themed around drag artists. This project stood out to me because, as someone who has always been creative, it was my first opportunity to be fully immersed in the design process and have complete creative freedom over what I produced.  

I feel the course provided us with a wide range of experiences, both in practical costume-making techniques and in developing the interpersonal skills needed within the industry. I also appreciated the honest conversations about the challenges costume makers can face in the creative world. Understanding how the industry works before graduating is so important, and I always felt supported and well prepared by the course leaders.  

After graduating, my first role was as a Costume Revivals Casual at the Royal Ballet and Opera. This came after several months of searching for external work, which at first was disheartening. However, as someone with no prior professional experience in the costume industry, joining the Royal Ballet and Opera gave me the opportunity to learn at the highest standard while developing confidence in a supportive environment.  

In February 2025, I joined WhiteStar Costume, a maker’s studio specialising in theatre, film, TV and entertainment. I am now a core Team Member, focusing on creative and varied construction techniques. In a short period of time, I have developed my skills far beyond what I imagined possible, and I am incredibly grateful to be working in such an encouraging and inspiring environment.  

Since graduating, I’ve really enjoyed using my skills for personal creative projects. A particular highlight has been creating cosplay costumes inspired by Starlight Express, the musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber. It has been a real joy to reinterpret the stunning original designs by John Napier, incorporating my own creative additions. These costumes capture everything I love about theatre, they are imaginative, whimsical and fun, while also being technically challenging to construct using a wide range of materials.  

If you’re thinking about applying for the BA (Hons) Costume Construction course, I would wholeheartedly encourage you to take that step. Whether you already have experience or are just starting out, it’s an amazing opportunity to grow your skills, build confidence, and create real career prospects for the future.  

Join us and celebrate 10 years of exceptional craftsmanship at the UCSE BA (Hons) Costume Construction 10th Anniversary Exhibition 

Open to the public and hosted at the Royal Ballet and Opera in Covent Garden, this inspiring exhibition showcases outstanding graduate work and achievements from the past decade.   

Tuesday 10 March - Sunday 22 March  
Linbury Foyer, Royal Ballet and Opera House, Bow Street, London, WC2E 9DD  

My name is Spencer Glen, I’m a self-employed artist and Animation graduate, currently running my own creative business and selling my work at comic conventions across the UK. I studied at South Essex Colleges Group (SECG) from 2016 to 2018, before returning to education at University Centre South Essex (UCSE) from 2021 to 2024, where I completed a BA (Hons) Animation, achieving a First-Class degree. 

I originally chose South Essex Colleges Group because it was local and offered a Creative Media course. After taking a three-year break from education, I decided to return and continue my studies at UCSE. Having already built relationships with the tutors and being familiar with the learning environment, it felt like the right place to come back, refocus, and develop my creative skills. Returning to SECG and UCSE turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. 

My journey into higher education wasn’t straightforward. During my college years, I faced personal and health challenges that affected my studies. Taking time away from education allowed me to rebuild my confidence and return with a clearer sense of purpose. With encouragement and support from tutors, I was able to restart my education, settle into a new campus environment, and fully commit to my degree. 

During my time at UCSE, I developed both my creative and personal skills. The course helped me build confidence, create a strong social circle and learn how to manage my time, set goals, and work to deadlines. I was encouraged to push myself creatively, particularly with areas such as character design and anatomy, which have become central to my work. 

Since completing my degree, I’ve taken a unique path into self-employment. What started as a single piece of artwork created for a comic convention quickly grew into a creative business. I now sell my artwork, prints, and products at conventions across England and Scotland, building my stock, improving my stall and growing a supportive community around my work. 

My time at SECG and UCSE played a huge role in preparing me for this. The supportive learning environment, dedicated tutors, and access to industry-relevant equipment and software. 

One of my favourite memories from university was the Japan trip in my third year, a unique experience and a memorable way to finish my studies alongside my classmates and tutors. 

The best thing about higher education is the opportunity to focus on a subject you’re passionate about while building confidence and practical skills. I would recommend South Essex Colleges Group and University Centre South Essex for their supportive staff, engaging courses and commitment to helping students reach their potential. 

My ambition is to continue growing my creative business, reach new audiences, and explore the possibility of teaching in the future, giving back to students in the same way I was supported. 

My name is Jessica Bernard, and I’m a Graphic Designer at Keyloop, working across brand development, visual storytelling, and creating identities for global industry events for the automotive technology sector. I studied Graphic Design & Illustration at South Essex Colleges Group (SECG) and University Centre South Essex (UCSE) at the Luker Road Campus in Southend-on-Sea, completing my studies from 2017 to 2022.

I chose to study at SECG, and later UCSE, because it felt like the right environment to grow, not just as a designer, but as a person. The hands-on, creative approach to learning and the genuine support from tutors gave me confidence, direction, and the space to explore what I wanted my future to look like.  

I’d always been drawn to creativity. At school, I naturally gravitated toward subjects like art, design, and anything that allowed me to communicate ideas visually. Coming to college was the next step, a place where I could turn that early passion into real skills and a potential career path. I achieved DDM at college (2019) and graduated from university with a 2:1 (2022). 

Since completing my degree, I’ve built my career as a graphic designer and found myself working in a sector I never expected, automotive technology. I now work at Keyloop, where I focus on brand development, visual storytelling, and creating identities for global events, internal culture campaigns, and digital platforms such as the Drivetime Podcast. In the past two years, I’ve been able to play a role in modernising how the automotive sector communicates by making complex technology feel more human, inclusive, and accessible. My work has helped strengthen engagement across the business and the wider industry, and I’ve grown into a more strategic, cross-functional role as a result. 

My time at SECG and UCSE played a huge role in preparing me for the workplace. The supportive environment, meaningful feedback from tutors, and practical project-based learning taught me how to take briefs, interpret them creatively, manage deadlines, and present professionally, skills I use every single day. The college also helped me build confidence, improve my communication skills, and trust my creative instincts. These abilities have shaped how I tackle both work and personal projects, from illustration to photography, reminding me that creativity is part of who I am. 

The equipment I used were a great introduction to the professional tools and workflows used in the industry. The college provided access to up-to-date design software (such as Adobe Suite), reliable Macs, and creative facilities that allowed me to understand the fundamentals of working in a modern design environment, while also allowing us to experiment with the non-digital side of the industry, which I found incredibly insightful. 

My favourite memory from my time at UCSE is the sense of community in the creative department. I loved being surrounded by people who were just as passionate as I was, sharing ideas, experimenting, exploring, and encouraging each other to try new things. It was the first place where I truly felt like a designer, and that feeling has stayed with me ever since. 

The best thing about studying higher education is the chance to discover your potential. It builds skills, confidence, and curiosity, while giving you the freedom to experiment, take risks, and learn in a supportive environment. For me, it also opened doors to new opportunities and connections that shaped my career. 

I would recommend SECG and UCSE as they offer a genuinely supportive and creative learning environment. The tutors are invested in your growth and encourage exploration, which gave me the confidence to take risks and find my own voice. The practical, project-based structure means you graduate ready for real-world work, not just exams. And the sense of community among students and staff makes it a place where you feel seen, challenged, and inspired. If you’re someone who wants to turn creativity into a career, it’s a place that will help you do it. 

My greatest achievement so far has been receiving Autocar’s Drivers of Change: New Talent award. It represents not just a milestone in my career, but the impact I’ve been able to make in a short space of time by bringing a creative perspective into the automotive industry. It’s also a reflection of the work I’m most proud of, redefining how design is used to create clarity, strengthen culture, and humanise complex technology. Being recognised on that level, especially as someone who entered the industry from a nontraditional route, is something I’ll always see as a defining moment in my journey. 

My ambition is to keep building momentum in my career, taking on new challenges, and seeing the impact I can make through design. I want to continue shaping how creativity drives engagement, clarity, and culture, while exploring the full potential of my work to influence both the industry and the people within it.