S3 Pupils Explore Sustainable Fashion at ACS Clothing Ltd

On 5th December 2025, ​S3 pupils from Firrhill High School took part in an inspiring workplace visit to ACS Clothing Ltd’s headquarters at Maxim Park, gaining first-hand insight into how sustainability and the circular economy are shaping the fashion and textiles industry.

The visit built on a sustainable fashion and sewing workshop delivered by ACS Clothing at Firrhill High School on 7 November, allowing pupils to deepen their understanding of the industry and see theory brought to life in a real-world setting.

Fifteen S3 pupils studying Fashion and Textile Technology visited the ACS Clothing warehouse, where pupils and staff were welcomed by industry professionals and given a comprehensive tour of the facilities. During the visit, pupils learned about the wide range of roles involved in fashion manufacture, repair, logistics, and retail, and how these different stages work together to deliver a successful and sustainable service.

Learning About the Circular Economy
A key focus of the visit was sustainability and the role the fashion industry can play in supporting the green and circular economy. Pupils explored how ACS Clothing has evolved as a company and how sustainability underpins its operations, linking directly to learning across the curriculum, including Design, Chemistry, Business, and Art & Design.

Pupils also gained valuable insight into garment repair, upcycling, and resale, including work carried out for well-known brands such as Nudie Jeans and The North Face. Seeing these processes in action helped pupils understand how extending the life of clothing can reduce waste and environmental impact.

Aims of the Visit
The workplace visit aimed to:

• Raise awareness of careers within the fashion and textiles industry
• Help pupils understand how the industry can operate more sustainably and contribute to the circular economy
• Provide access to experts currently working in the sector
• Offer insight into professional repair, upcycling, and resale processes​

Impact and Outcomes
The visit supported the development of a strong and mutually beneficial employer–school partnership, with plans in place to continue working together to enhance the Fashion and Textile curriculum.

Key benefits included:

• Increased awareness among pupils and staff of the wide range of career pathways available within fashion, textiles, and sustainability
• Positive recognition of creative and sustainable career routes within Scotland
• Inspiration for the future workforce through direct engagement with industry professionals

What Staff Said
The visit was warmly received by staff and pupils alike. One teacher commented:
“It was fascinating! They are definitely a great connection to have – thanks for making the connection!”
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Looking Ahead
​This workplace visit demonstrated the value of meaningful employer engagement in bringing learning to life and supporting young people to make informed decisions about future pathways. By connecting classroom learning with real-world practice, pupils were able to see how creativity, sustainability, and innovation come together in the modern fashion industry.

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