Level 3 Extended Diploma in Blacksmithing & Metalwork (Level 3)
Learners will be required to develop their breadth and expertise in the technical areas of forge work, welding and fabrication. After an initial period of technical development, students will be expected to research, design, develop and make complex pieces in both contemporary and traditional styles.
During this two-year course, students will also manufacture most of the hand tools required for the project work and learn about the properties of materials with which they work, including those metals less common in blacksmithing such as stainless steel, copper and brass.
Learners will be assessed by their ability to produce well researched, designed and made pieces within the context of predicted and actual production time. This is to develop a professional and business-like approach, which can be measured against industrial norms.
Course Content
The course is mainly delivered in the workshop with related knowledge sessions. Units include:
- Forgework
- Welding / Fabrication
- Heat treatment and corrosion control
- The history of blacksmithing
- Merits and techniques of preservation, conservation and restoration
- Operation of small business / self-employment
- Production of a project / commission portfolio
- Artistic drawing and design
- Historical and design research
- Attention to decorative finishes, and site work evaluation
Work Experience
Learners are expected to undertake a 3 week work-experience placement.
Functional Skills
All full-time learners will be required to study Functional Skills at the appropriate level. These will be in maths, English and in some cases ICT. Attendance to these sessions is mandatory, please refer to the Functional Skills section of this website for more details.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Traditionally this course is heavily oversubscribed. The majority of selection interviews will be held during week commencing 12th December 2011, 20th February 2012 and 26th March 2012, although further interview days may be held if necessary.
Key Facts
Campus: Holme Lacy -
Centre for Rural Crafts
Minimum Age: 16
Duration: 2 years
Award: BTEC National Diploma in Blacksmithing and Metalwork
Units: The units listed are provisional and variations may occur.
Entry Requirements:
5 GCSEs at grade C or above including English and maths, or a full Level 2 Blacksmithing qualification at merit or distinction. Relevant previous metalworking/art experience, interview and diagnostic assessments.
Typical Employment:
Self employed Blacksmith (Contemporary design or traditional reproduction / restoration) Employed Blacksmith / Metalworker / Welder.
Further Study:
BA (Hons) Artist Blacksmithing
Contact:
0800 032 1986
enquiries@hct.ac.uk
