Want to become a jeweller but can’t face the cost of a 3 year degree? Consider this option

It’s hard to believe now but when I went to university there was no such thing as tuition fees. I *whispers it* actually got a full grant! A grant, for those who are too young to have heard of the concept, was an annual payment from the government to attend university. It wasn’t enough to live on but it was a start!

The world of education has unfortunately changed since then and there are more things to consider than when I went to university. If you’ve just got your A-level results, have had a break before thinking about university or are looking to a second or third career you might be trying to decide whether university study will be worth it. Perhaps you still want to learn more but can’t quite face three years of full-time study. Or maybe you would love to take three years out but life is getting in the way, not to mention worries over the debt that you would finish with.

Well, we have another option for you. Our Diploma in Creative Jewellery.

What is the Diploma in Creative Jewellery?

A one year course you attend at our central London studios one day per week (10-5pm). On this very practical course you will learn lots of different types of jewellery making techniques and we take you through from beginner to advanced level. The skills you’ll learn include silversmithing, beading, perspex, silver clay, enamelling, polymer clay, wax carving, wire work, resin and more. And don’t worry if you don’t know what all of these are; you will! 

Our current and previous Diploma students tend to be working or looking after family alongside taking the course, putting less of a strain on their lives and finances. 

 

Do I need jewellery making experience?

No! All the jewellery techniques are taught from beginners level. If you do have some experience with any of the techniques then that’s good because you will get to practice. If not it doesn’t matter, you will be taken through everything step by step by our expert tutors.

 

How am I assessed?

Your work is marked once a term. You are provided with all the criteria for marking on the first day of the course so you will know what you need to do to get a distinction.

Along with your marked coursework you are also assessed on a jewellery collection you create for a final exhibition. This is an opportunity for you to invite friends and family to see what you have achieved, as well as being the day you are awarded your diploma certificate!

 

How am I supported?

We want to ensure that all students get individual attention and feedback to learn effectively so there are no more than seven students on the course.

As well as your expert tutors, you will also be assigned a mentor (if you join our September Sunday group I’ll be your mentor!). Your mentor is one of our experienced tutors who also runs their own jewellery business. You will be able to email her anytime you have a question and you will also meet with her once a term for marking and discussion about your progress on the course.

On the day you are at the studios the studio manager will also be able to help with queries you have.

 

Is it just women that take the course?
No! Many students are but we had one diploma group where the men outnumbered the women!

 

Am I too old to take the course?
No! Students at the London Jewellery School must be sixteen or over but there’s no upper limit! This course attracts a diverse group of people including school leavers, people on a gap year, people wishing to retrain for a second or third career, people taking the course purely for their own development and interest, retired people and more! All you need is a desire to create, learn and practice.

 

What can I do at the end of the course?

Most of our students go on to start their own successful jewellery businesses (you do learn jewellery business and jewellery photography as part of the course). By the end of the course you will have a good idea of which type of jewellery making you like best and will be able to specialise.

We also run an Advanced Diploma in Jewellery and a Diploma in Silver Jewellery if you would like to study further. 

 

Is the course accredited?

The course is assessed internally and is not affiliated with external examining bodies. It is well regarded in the industry and forms a great kickstart to your career in the jewellery industry. We are happy to act as a reference for any relevant job applications.

 

When is the next intake for the course?
We start the course twice a year, with the next intake next month, in September.

There is still time to apply for our September Sunday group.

 

What does the cost of the course include?
The cost of the course includes your tuition, mentoring and the vast majority of materials.

 

Do I need to buy tools?
All the tools you need will be provided for you to use during your workshops. We recommend you wait until you start the course to get advice from tutors about the tools you might like to purchase to use at home.

 

Can I pay the course fee in installments?
Yes! We have a few different installment options which you can see on our website.

 

Where can I find out more about the Diploma course?

Have a look on our website for a detailed breakdown of the course content or give us a call if you have questions, 0203 176 0546. We’re open 7 days a week!

http://www.londonjewelleryschool.co.uk/jewellery-diploma/diploma-in-creative-jewellery/

 

Can I visit the studios?
You are welcome to visit the studios to talk to the studios manager and see our facilities. It is worth calling in advance to let us know that you will be coming in. Our number is 0203 176 0546