Course overview
Blacksmithing and Metalwork is an important skill, very much in demand in a
number of industries.
This one-year programme, has been developed to enable learners to develop a
range of skills which are necessary to be successful in the blacksmithing and
metalworking industries, including drawing and computer aided design, as well
relevant theoretical, artistic, contemporary and historical knowledge combined
with hands-on metalworking skills including forging and welding. Suitable for
school leavers and adult learners with an interest in developing metalworking
skills, this programme will give students a range of valuable skills and
qualifications
The programme naturally provides progression on to Level 3 Blacksmithing and
Metalworking programmes for students who have developed competence in forge work
as well as all other aspects of the programme.
Qualifications Gained:
- NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Creative Crafts (Heritage & Traditional
Crafts) - City & Guilds Level 1 Award in TIG Welding
- UAL Level 2 Award in Drawing
- Level 2 Computer Aided Design (CAD)
- Certificate in the safe use of Abrasive Wheels (angle grinders)
- GCSEs in English and maths (for those without grade 4)
Modules
How will I be assessed?
This programme is assessed through coursework assignments for both practical and theory work with the schedule of assignments being spaced throughout the academic year.
What is it like to be a student on this course?
Learning Blacksmithing is hands-on, challenging and rewarding. You’ll spend time developing practical craft skills in workshops, supported by demonstrations and guidance from our highly skilled blacksmithing teaching staff. Learning how to use materials, tools and equipment safely and develop traditional craft techniques, design and create heritage or traditional craft items, you will complete practical assessments and document your projects, as well as undertaking a wide range of coursework assignments relating to topics such as health and safety, drawing, design and materials properties. Blacksmithing can be physically demanding and requires patience, concentration and a willingness to learn from mistakes, but it is also satisfying to see raw metal gradually become a finished object that you have designed and made yourself.
Industry links
British Artist Blacksmiths Association (BABA), The Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths, National Heritage Ironwork Group (NHIG)
Work experience
Industry placements enhance your studies and are an important part of your course. They ensure you develop the key skills, knowledge and behaviours necessary to be successful in your chosen industry, resulting in you leaving college ready for the world of work. It is compulsory to undertake an element of work experience when studying a Level 1, 2, or 3 course. The number of hours you must complete will depend on your level of study.
Course Level:
- Level 1 – Minimum of 30 hours of industry placement
- Level 2 – Minimum of 75 hours of industry placement
- Level 3 – Minimum of 150 hours of industry placement (per year of your course)
- T Level – Minimum of 315 hours of industry placement
Student testimonial
I’ve now completed my Level 2 course and I’m in my final year of Level 3 Extended Diploma. I particularly enjoy drawing and designing and making useful things. My favourite part about Level 3 has been experimenting at the forge with new connection techniques.
Izaac Reed – Level 3 Extended Diploma Blacksmithing and Metalwork
Entry requirements
4 GCSEs at grade 3 and above to include English and Maths OR a Level 1 in a related subject plus English and Maths, at least grade 3 or Functional skills level 1
Progression routes
- Level 3 Blacksmtihing
- Level 3 Jewellery Making
Bursaries
Financial support could be available to you depending on your household income, eligibility criteria, and level of study. A bursary, which is money given directly by the Government, could help fund bus travel, accommodation, course equipment, college meals, or educational trips.
Course Fees
Students aged 16-18 on 31st August in the year of starting the course do not pay tuition fees.
Adults aged 19+ may be entitled to a tuition fee waiver on certain courses (where the Government pays the tuition and assessment fee) if any of the following apply:
You are aged between 19 and 23 and:
- This is your first Full Level 2 or Full Level 3 qualification.
- You are undertaking English and Maths up to and including Level 2.
- You are unemployed or economically inactive and your gross annual income is below £26,800.
- Your course is part of the Level 3 Free Courses for Jobs offer (and you meet the earnings threshold)
You are aged 24+ and:
- You are studying a Level 1 or Level 2 course and are unemployed, economically inactive, or earning below £26,800 gross annually.
- You are undertaking English and Maths up to and including Level 2.
- Your course is part of the Level 3 Free Courses for Jobs offer (and you meet the earnings threshold)
All students pay a standard facility fee of £150 to use communal, non-educational facilities.
Material fees apply to Floristry, Blacksmithing and Metalwork, Agricultural Engineering, and Motor Vehicle students.
Equipment & PPE
Students on a 14-16, Level 1, 2, 3, or Foundation Learning course may be required to purchase equipment such as a uniform, PPE, or kit before starting their course. Material fees are applicable depending on the course studied.
Start dates
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