Developing Future Talent

At Arcadia Group we want young people to see fashion retailing as a career, not just a job. We are passionate about playing a key role in providing the support and encouragement - and the specialist education - required to turn out the retail stars of tomorrow.

The Fashion Retail Academy, which Arcadia Group part funded in partnership with other retailers and the Government, develops skilled individuals who are already being snapped up by some of the high street's best-known names, including our own brands. As well as putting up a significant part of the initial funding, Arcadia Group also provides a source of visiting lecturers who share their own expertise with students at the Academy. Our stores in London's West End, close to the Academy, host students' work experience placements to help bring their coursework to life.

We are also committed to the Specialist Schools Programme, investing in and providing support for around 50 schools across the UK. The schools have all successfully bid for specialist status as a centre of excellence for business and enterprise. As well as having supported the programme financially, Arcadia Group provides a pool of our own talent in the form of employees who are partnered with each school. Our people work closely with those schools to relate the curriculum to business realities.