Phoebe Steer, who studied Fashion at the College from 2021 to 2023, achieved a Distinction before progressing to Nottingham Trent University (NTU). Since then, she has secured opportunities such as winning competitions, participating in a Black Leadership Programme, and gaining industry experience with leading fashion designers.
Steer credits her time at college with preparing her for university. She commented, “I would say the journey from where I started and finished college prepared me the most. I started college with very little knowledge of fashion and didn’t achieve the grades I wanted in my first year, so I dedicated the entire summer to improving. I then finished the course with a distinction and the Progression Award. That whole experience gave me a massive amount of evidence and confidence that I can create the results I want when I’m honest about what I need to do and put in deliberate, consistent effort!”
At university, Phoebe has explored various creative disciplines including laser cutting, power knitting, ceramics, leatherwork, and print, alongside participating in NTU Enterprise competitions and university societies.
A highlight at university was her involvement in the Black Leadership Programme, where she collaborated with peers to win a styling competition, leading to their work being featured on BBC News. She also designed and created her own outfit for her graduation.
Earlier this year, Steer won the Paul Smith Design competition, earning fabrics for her graduate project and a summer internship with the team. She reflected, “I assisted with design, product development and sampling, which was a major learning opportunity for me!” Examples of her work include the Graduate Exhibition (titled Far Offline), a Graduate photoshoot and magazine, and the Paul Smith design submission (titled Paul & The Renegades).
Looking ahead, Phoebe is returning to NTU to deliver a styling workshop for their Black Leadership Programme and is working on a project with another NTU graduate. She has also begun contributing to the development and marketing of a local clothing business, with more projects anticipated.
