Foundation Programme

Call for Applications: Foundation Programme

The Goldsmiths’ Centre's Foundation Programme is a fully-funded programme for 16 to 19 year olds in London and the South East, who are seeking a career in jewellery or silversmithing, introducing them to a range of creative and technical skills specialisms, which can result in a City & Guilds qualification.

The Foundation Programme is a also key gateway into the Goldsmiths’ Company Apprenticeship Scheme.

Applications for 2019/2020 close on Sunday 5 May 2019. 

Now in its 6th year, the Foundation Programme is unique to the UK and offers young people in London and the South East, who love crafting and working with their hands, the opportunity to receive expert training to kickstart their careers.

Taught by some of the UK’s leading practicing craftspeople, the Goldsmiths’ Centre’s Foundation Programme marks the first step onto an apprenticeship, university degree or job, enabling up to ten creative young people to develop traditional hand skills and real-world experience in a short period of time. With over 80% of trainees progressing into employment within the industry and the majority of these securing apprenticeships, the Foundation Programme demonstrates the impact and relevance of in-depth training in craft skills alongside the use of digital technologies, such as Computer Aided Design (CAD). Its alumni have gone on to receive industry recognition in more than 35 UK and international competitions, including the Goldsmiths Craft & Design Council Awards, WorldSkills UK, and Retail Jewellers’ 30 Under 30, among others.

Jordan Kippax, a 2017 Foundation Programme, and current diamond mounting apprentice at Theo Fennell Ltd, explains: “I’ve always been arty, and I paint in my free time, but I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do career-wise. So, when the time came to leave school one of teachers asked me what I wanted to do, and I said that I had always loved jewellery. It turns out my teacher had a friend who knew of the Goldsmiths’ Centre and they recommended the Foundation Programme to me.” 

Chris Oliver, Head of Professional Training at the Goldsmiths’ Centre comments: “Our Foundation Programme students go through an intensive year of training with some of the leading names in the goldsmithing industry. Students develop an in-depth understanding of designing and making using a mix of traditional techniques and new technologies. Being part of the wider community of the Goldsmiths’ Centre also ensures that the relationships formed last well beyond the course and upon completion we continue to offer support and training throughout their apprenticeships.”

Deadline for Applications

Applications for the Foundation Programme 2019/20 close on Sunday 5 May 2019.

For More Information

For more information and to apply visit
www.goldsmiths-centre.org/courses/foundation-programme