East Lothian locals see 'end of an era' as much-loved fashion school closes

The fashion school was loved by many
-Credit: (Image: Fashion School Dunbar)


An East Lothian fashion school that helped bring confidence to vulnerable people in the area is set to close.

Fashion School, which sat on Belhaven Road in Dunbar, is set to close as owner Jacqui Burke launches a design studio in Edinburgh. The new spot on Ocean Drive in the capital will be open to the public from September 28.

Looking back on her time at the school, Jacqui said she’s ‘ready for a new stage of life’. She thanked the ‘brilliant people’ who helped make the school what it was.

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Jacqui said: “I have loved setting up and being at the Fashion School and all the people I’ve taught, but I’m ready for a new stage of life.

“I’m revitalising my fashion brand and I’m really excited about designing and creating new made to measure fashion items and collections. It’s a personal venture that will need all my energy to make it a success.

“I had a big birthday earlier this year and turning 60 means the timing is right for me to focus on designing again. It is the end of an era and I’m sad the Fashion School will not be continuing.

“Over two years ago we had a proposal from The Ridge to take it over as The Ridge Fashion School, as it was becoming increasingly difficult to secure funding and they did not want another accredited centre in the area. However they only wanted to take over the building and change its purpose.

“Ideally it would have been amazing to pass it on to someone who would continue its good work and see it develop and grow. We have approached local community groups and community leaders and unfortunately no one wants to take it on.

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“Machines have already been gifted to former pupils so they can keep designing and making their own creations, and other equipment and materials will be donated to Zero Waste. So many brilliant people have been involved over the years making the Fashion School a powerhouse of creativity and community and I’ll have all the wonderful memories to carry me through into the future.”

Posting to Facebook, the Fashion School added: “Fashion School in Dunbar to close its doors as founder Jacqui Burke opens a new design studio in Edinburgh’s waterfront.

“The Fashion School was established in 2005 after successfully tutoring Adult Education Classes from 2001 post giving birth to her 3 children, became a Ltd company in 2011 and moved to its current premises in the former library over 10 years ago. Since then, the school has welcomed thousands of youngsters and adults to the well-loved and inspirational social enterprise.

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“School-aged children in and outside formal education, vulnerable groups and many East Lothian clubs and societies benefited from the Fashion School’s special blend of creative education and training. Jacqui Burke created an acknowledged centre of excellence in her home town of Dunbar following an international career in the fashion industry as a top designer.

“She will return to designing high fashion collections in a new city centre studio as she retires from the Fashion School.”

After sharing the news on social media, locals were gutted by the news. One follower commented: “It’s sad that the fashion school is closing.

“I have admired many outfits and spoken to many of your former students who love what you have taught them.”

A second added: “It’s such a shame.

“I would have loved to have taken a look. Best of luck with your new venture.”