The Metaskills4TCLF project officially kicked off its five-part workshop circuit with an engaging three-day event in Pirmasens, hosted by PFI. The workshop brought together 27 participants from 14 partner organisations across 8 countries, marking a key milestone in preparing educators to pilot the co-developed innovative learning tools designed within the project.

The Metaskills4TCLF initiative aims to transform fashion and textile education through the development of 36 microcredentials, a comprehensive e-learning platform, and immersive VR and AR learning tools. The project seeks to equip teachers and trainers with the skills needed to address emerging challenges in the TCLF sectors (Textiles, Clothing, Leather, and Footwear), promoting innovation, sustainability, and digital readiness across Europe.

Workshop Focus and Activities

The first “Train the Trainers” workshop was designed not only to prepare participants for the piloting phase of the project but also to foster mutual learning and collaboration among experts in the field. As all partners contribute to the development of both the materials and the piloting process, the workshop circuit serves as a co-creation platform — where trainers learn from each other, exchange practices, and collectively refine the project’s outputs.

During Day 1, participants received an overview of the project, including presentations on the microcredentials, innovative digital tools (AR, VR, and e-learning platform), and the pathway to piloting and validation. Two focus groups explored the validation of microcredentials from both trainer and learner perspectives, using EQF criteria to ensure quality and relevance.

Day 2 centered on Design Thinking (DT) as a core methodology for curriculum development. Participants were introduced to the DT Toolkit and methodology developed within the preparation of the workshops, then applied these tools in group exercises addressing trainers’ piloting needs. The day concluded with a validation of the methodology and a focus on the micro-credential “Design Thinking for Circular Fashion.”

On Day 3, attention shifted to storytelling as a creative approach to curricula development. Participants explored how curricula, microcredentials, VR tools, and assessments can be interconnected to form comprehensive learning experiences. In hands-on group exercises, participants developed concepts based on selected microcredentials. Afterwards each group presented their story and developed ideas which were recorded for further exploration within the project. The session concluded with a quality assessment and feedback round, followed by a visit to the PFI physics lab.

Key Outcomes and Reflections

Participants actively engaged in collaborative and creative exercises, from Design Thinking toolkit exploration to storytelling-based curricula development, bringing theory into practice. The event fostered a vibrant atmosphere of innovation, inspiration, and teamwork, aligning with the project’s goal to empower educators to co-create the future of fashion education.

To capture participants’ reflections, the Design Thinking Empathy Map tool was used at the end of the workshop. Many participants expressed that they felt inspired and motivated, planned to explore the provided materials further, and appreciated the opportunity to learn from peers. While it was not possible to explore every topic in depth within the three days, the workshop successfully set a strong foundation for ongoing learning and collaboration.

Looking Ahead

The journey continues in January in Igualada, where the second workshop will build on the insights and momentum from Pirmasens. This next session will dive deeper into the practical application of the project’s resources and pedagogical tools, like the e-learning platform and its content.

Stay tuned as the Metaskills4TCLF workshop circuit unfolds, shaping the future of fashion education and training across Europe — fostering creativity, sustainability, and innovation in the TCLF sectors.