This month saw the launch of the Jermyn Street Association’s inaugural mentorship programme in partnership with London’s Fashion Retail Academy. 

This first-ever Jermyn Street Mentorship Programme is  a unique learning initiative providing a select group of ten fashion degree students from the Fashion Retail Academy with a valuable opportunity to experience a working retail environment alongside world-renowned participating mentor brands from Jermyn Street.

Brands taking part in the programme include: Fortnum & Mason, Pink Shirtmaker, Emma Willis, Hawes & Curtis, Crockett & Jones, La Martina, Harvie and Hudson, Emmett London, Benson & Clegg and Foster & Son.

Sean Ghouse, chairman of the Jermyn Street Association and head of retail UK at Fortnum & Mason, said: “This unique partnership between the Fashion Retail Academy and Jermyn Street Association, gives us the opportunity to provide ‘best in class’ training and development, creating an important mentorship programme, that will give our members the reward and satisfaction of enabling these young people to make positive changes and informed choices. It will also give students the chance to meet and share experiences with others, enhancing their self-esteem, confidence and self-awareness.”

The Fashion Retail Academy (FRA)  offers a range of exclusive fashion courses with unparalleled industry involvement and work experience. Students will work with their allocated brand mentor throughout the academic year learning different aspects of the business from buying and merchandising to retail ops and business management, gaining a broad understanding of what it takes to run a successful fashion business.

Amanda Colvin, the Fashion Retail Academy’s director of marketing notes: “The collaboration between FRA and the Jermyn Street Association offers students a unique learning experience, combining academic teaching with practical, on-the-job training across multiple functions within a fashion business.”

Not only do students gain an exclusive insight into world-renowned brands but they also learn about Jermyn Street’s unrivalled tradition of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The original home of menswear, Jermyn Street’s rich sartorial offering encompasses heritage labels that range from contemporary design and gentlemen’s outfitters to bespoke footwear and grooming products. With over 300 years of history, this quintessentially British retail destination offers a rare glimpse into exceptional customer service, celebrated the world over.