FOCUS: First Jewellery Apprentices start work
The first ever government recognised Apprenticeship in Jewellery, developed by the sector skills council for the UK’s creative and cultural industries, Creative & Cultural Skills, is underway at Holts Academy of Jewellery in London.
Working in partnership with the Goldsmiths’ Company, Holt’s Academy and other jewellery organisations and makers, Creative & Cultural Skills developed an Apprenticeship framework at Levels 2 and 3 to provide a new entry route to jobs including Silversmithing, Engraving, Gem Setting, Polishing & Finishing, Enamelling and CAD/CAM Technology. Building on this, Holts Academy of Jewellery has today announced the launch and first pilot of an exclusive Apprenticeship programme in partnership with Coutts Bank, backed by the British Jewellery Association and The Goldsmiths’ Company. The scheme hopes to nurture the next generation of creativity by producing some of the most exciting designers and manufacturers in the UK jewellery sector.
The course starts at Holts Academy, set in the vibrant heart of London’s jewellery quarter in Hatton Garden. A year-long placement follows with one of the collaborating employers from across London and the UK, in tandem with day-release for further training. All of the skills required to regenerate the industry are covered, from enamelling, hand-engraving, setting and traditional jewellery design, as well as contemporary manufacturing techniques. Throughout the course, students are able to gain skills and employment while specialising within their own chosen field.
Lee Lucas, Principal, Holts Academy, said: ‘With more than 1million young people currently out of work and over 60,000 more being added to this count each quarter, there hasnever been a better time for people to look seriously at meaningful vocational learning. Getting vocational training right is crucial if Britain wants to enjoy sustained growth in the long term and that is exactly what the Academy is offering the jewellery industry. This exciting first step in Apprenticeships for the jewellery sector has already seen 16 young people start on the path to long- term employment and a legacy of skills that will ensure that they can earn a living for the rest of their lives’
Catherine Large, Joint CEO, Creative & Cultural Skills said: ‘We are delighted to have led the development of this new Apprenticeship in Jewellery. It marks the start of further work we are undertaking with the Jewellery sector, and we are extremely pleased that employers are keen to get involved’.
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