Jewellery

What will the course Cover?

This course builds your knowledge of jewellery-making methods and techniques by guiding you through the complete creative process - from research and concept development to the crafting, presentation and evaluation of a finished piece. You will be introduced to the enamelling process as well as basic cold connection stone setting techniques and you will apply both within a personal jewellery project. You will continue to strengthen essential metalworking skills, including piercing, soldering, filing and polishing. The course puts an emphasis on the confident and professional use of tools, materials and equipment, helping you to work safely and independently. Research is an important element of the course. You will explore the work of other jewellery designers and makers, comparing styles, techniques and creative contexts to inspire and inform your own ideas. You will learn how to develop, refine and adapt your design decisions throughout the making process. Planning, reflection and evaluation are central to your learning. You will document your full journey - noting challenges, solutions and areas for further improvement, while maintaining a safe and well organised workspace.

Who is this course for?

This course is intended for learners who have completed the Level 1 Award in Creative Crafts (Jewellery pathway) or who have equivalent experience. It is ideal for those wishing to extend their jewellery making technical skills and design processing of ideas.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

Ideally you will have completed Level 1 Jewellery or have similar experience. You should already have basic competence in piercing, soldering, filing and polishing metal to a competent finish and understand basic jewellery technology and terminology. You will also need to have a basic knowledge of the tools and equipment used in a jewellery workshop or classroom setting and be able to use this equipment safely while following workshop regulations. In addition, you should be committed to recording your design ideas and processes. Literacy and numeracy at an appropriate level are required for written project work, research and evaluation.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

By completing the Level 2 Award you will be able to: Apply enamelling and basic cold connection stone setting techniques within a personal jewellery project. Demonstrate improved metalworking skills, including piercing, soldering, filing and polishing. Use jewellery making tools, materials and equipment safely and professionally, working with growing confidence and independence. Research and evaluate the work of jewellery designers and makers to inform your own creative decisions. Develop and adapt design ideas through planning, experimentation and reflection. Document the full creative and technical process, identifying challenges, solutions and areas for improvement. Maintain a safe, organised and efficient workspace, following best practice throughout.

How is the course organised?

Teaching includes demonstrations, practical studio sessions, presentations, guided research, group critiques and formal feedback. You will take part in structured tutorials and idea development tasks aligned with Level 2 learning outcomes. Google Classroom is used to provide learning materials, presentations and handouts, and to support your research and documentation.

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

You will be expected to carry out independent research, develop design ideas and maintain project records between sessions. Additional tasks may be set to help you refine skills or progress your project. Visits to museums, exhibitions or suppliers are strongly encouraged.

How will my progress be assessed?

Assessment is continuous and includes individual tutorials and group critiques as well as targeted tasks linked to Level 2 units. Formal assessments will occur for the course units, with both oral and written feedback. You will use documentation such as sketchbooks, written reflections and photographic evidence. You will be expected to record your work and progress in both digital and non-digital formats, upload online and produce a digital portfolio for assessment. The qualification is internally assessed and externally quality assured through a portfolio of evidence, with no formal exams.

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

This course also provides a strong foundation for progressing to a Level 3 qualification in a creative subject. You will develop practical craft techniques alongside transferable creative skills relevant to careers in crafts, handmade product businesses, community arts, retail, and freelance creative work. Learners will also build confidence, creativity and a portfolio of work to support further education, training, or employment opportunities within the creative industries.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

Core workshop materials are provided. You will need a sketchbook, drawing pencils, fine tip permanent marker and a small tool box or art box. You will also need to purchase additional specialist materials for your individual project.

What support is available?

Help with literacy, numeracy or digital skills is available through the functional skills programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. Details of all available support can be found on our website (hfals.co.uk), in the Guide, the Student Handbook or from teaching and reception staff.

Tutor - Cordelia Stewart

Cordelia Stewart is an interdisciplinary artist, jeweller and educator based in at Thames Side Studios in South East London. Instagram.com/icekandijewelley