U.K.’s National Film and Television School Partners With Angels Costumes on New Sandy Powell-Backed Costume Design Course

New Delhi, India Jul 9, 2026 ALN: The U.K.’s National Film and Television School (NFTS) has unveiled a new partnership with Angels Costumes and John Gore Studios to support the renowned college’s new costume course. This initiative marks a significant step forward in addressing the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the field of costume design, which is an essential aspect of film and television production.

The newly established two-year postgraduate degree in costume design for film and television has been developed in response to a recognized need within the screen industries for trained costume designers, supervisors, and department heads. As the film and television sectors continue to grow and evolve, the demand for specialized skills in costume design has become more pronounced. The NFTS aims to train a new generation of professionals who can meet these industry requirements. The first cohort of 10 students is set to begin their studies in January, marking the commencement of this innovative program.

Angels Costumes, the world’s longest-established professional costumiers, was founded in 1840 and has a storied history in providing costumes for various productions. Recently acquired by John Gore Studios, Angels Costumes brings a wealth of expertise, resources, and industry knowledge to the NFTS partnership. This collaboration will provide students with unique opportunities, including professional placements at Angels’ London headquarters. Such placements are invaluable for students, allowing them to gain firsthand experience in a professional setting, which is crucial for their development as costume designers.

In addition to practical experience, students will have access to a wide range of costumes and specialist resources that will support their work on NFTS productions. Angels Costumes will also assist selected productions with costume hire, ensuring that students can utilize high-quality costumes in their projects. Furthermore, Angels will contribute to the course’s industry advisory panel, offering guidance and insights that will help shape the curriculum and ensure it meets the evolving needs of the industry.

The announcement of the costume design course earlier this year was accompanied by the appointment of Sandy Powell, a three-time Oscar-winning costume designer, as the course ambassador. Powell is a highly respected figure in the industry, known for her innovative and creative approach to costume design. Her involvement has been instrumental in shaping a program that reflects the creative, technical, and leadership skills required of contemporary costume designers. The NFTS has emphasized the importance of these skills in preparing students for successful careers in the industry.

In addition to the course, the NFTS has launched The Sandy Powell Scholarship, aimed at ensuring that training in costume design is accessible to talented individuals regardless of their financial background. This scholarship reflects a commitment to diversity and inclusion within the industry, recognizing that talent can come from various socioeconomic backgrounds. By providing financial support, the NFTS hopes to attract a wider range of applicants and foster a more inclusive environment within the field of costume design.

Sandy Powell’s recent work includes serving as the costume designer for “My Duchess,” directed by Mike Newell, which features notable actors such as Dame Joan Collins and Isabella Rossellini. This film represents the first major feature project from John Gore Studios, further highlighting the significance of this partnership between the NFTS, Angels Costumes, and John Gore Studios.

Jon Wardle, the director of NFTS, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Angels represents an extraordinary resource for aspiring costume designers, combining generations of craftsmanship, technical expertise, and historical knowledge with an unrivalled archive that has supported some of the most celebrated productions in screen history.” His remarks underscore the importance of combining traditional skills with modern educational approaches to prepare students for the challenges of the industry.

John Gore, the executive chairman of John Gore Studios, articulated the strategic vision behind the acquisition of Angels Costumes, describing it as an acquisition by design. He emphasized the goal of merging a storied institution with a forward-looking creative vision, thereby preserving its legacy while simultaneously investing in the next generation of creative talent. This vision aligns with the broader trends in the entertainment industry, where there is an increasing focus on nurturing new talent and fostering innovation.

Emma Angel, director of Angels Costumes, echoed the sentiments of her colleagues, highlighting the excitement surrounding the opportunity for students to learn from leading practitioners in the field. She noted the importance of gaining hands-on production experience and engaging with the rich history and craftsmanship that Angels embodies. The involvement of Sandy Powell as an ambassador adds a significant layer of creative insight and industry leadership to the program, which is expected to inspire and guide students throughout their studies.

The establishment of this costume design course is not just a response to industry demand; it also reflects a broader recognition of the critical role that costume design plays in storytelling within film and television. Costumes are not merely clothing; they are vital tools for character development, world-building, and visual storytelling. As audiences become more discerning and the competition among productions intensifies, the need for skilled costume designers who can contribute to the artistic vision of a project is more important than ever.

In summary, the partnership between the NFTS, Angels Costumes, and John Gore Studios represents a significant advancement in costume design education in the U.K. By providing students with access to industry expertise, resources, and professional opportunities, this initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of talented costume designers who will shape the future of the film and television industries. As the first cohort prepares to embark on their journey in January, the impact of this program is anticipated to resonate throughout the industry for years to come.