Here is West Kent College’s response to our Freedom of Information request:

Q: Does your HE establishment have a policy on the use of fur?

A: No, we do not currently have a formal written policy on this issue but the College does not buy real fur for students to use. We teach fibre and fabric sourcing in year one and ethics in fashion and textiles as part of year 2 & 3 modules. We debate ethical issues including animal rights and the fur industry, look at websites such as the ethical fashion forum and PETA websites with our students. We teach them that fur farming has been illegal since 2000 in the UK and ensure they are aware of the animal cruelty issues associated with such practices in other countries.

Q: Does real fur feature in any of your fashion or design courses, and if so, in what way?

A: No. We do not buy real fur for our students to use. We would strongly discourage students from using fur. We have had students work with ‘shearling’ high quality sheep fleece but we have ensured that they know their sources and have good ethical standards that may be seen in some of our photos on social media and may look like, but are definitely are not fur.

Q: What financial support, including sponsored competitions do you receive from the fur industry?

A: None. We do not work with the fur industry in any capacity.

Q: Does your HE establishment allow or facilitate the fur industry to promote design competitions, summer schools, sponsorships, internships, or scholarships?

A: No, we do not work with the fur industry in any capacity.

This university discourages the use of fur but has no written policy to support this.

Please urge the University to adopt a written fur free policy.  Email: f.a.o. senior management team, info@westkent.ac.uk