Blacksmithing: Design and Forgework Skills
Course Rationale
The DFS programme is a joint venture between The British Artist Blacksmiths Association (BABA) and Herefordshire College of Technology (HCT). BABA are the architects of the programme and the lead industry body responsible for monitoring programme quality on behalf of the industry.
The course provides practising blacksmiths with the opportunity to explore and develop a broad spectrum of design and production techniques in a highly creative environment. The units listed below have been carefully selected from the Edexcel portfolio to create a unique programme tailored to meet the needs of those wishing to enhance their skills as practising artist blacksmiths.
Course Content
Subject matter will be drawn from the following list of approved units:
- Unit 2 - Forging techniques
- Unit 3 - Drawing practice
- Unit 7 - Forge practice
- Unit 8 - Blacksmithing processes
- Unit 9 - Blacksmithing construction skills
- Unit 10 - Blacksmithing installation skills
- Unit 20 - Principles and methods of design
- Unit 24 - Small scale design
- Unit 25 - Small scale working
- Unit 26 - Large scale design
- Unit 27 - Large scale working
- Unit 28 - Repousse and other decorative skills
Assessment
Assessment will take place via practical projects and written assignments. Students will undertake project work between block weeks so routine, regular access to a forge will be essential.
Learning Support
All students undergo a diagnostic assessment to determine individual needs.
Facilities and Resources
HCT has outstanding resources for blacksmiths and farriers that include 60 forges and related equipment, MMA/TIG/MIG welding facilities, design studio, demo forge, learning resources centre, IT suites and conventional classrooms. Teaching staff are master craftsmen with many years experience of supporting individuals to develop and enhance their forgework skills.
Presentation of Awards
At the end of the programme students are invited to attend a celebration ceremony where achievement certificates and special awards are presented.
Progression Routes
Typical employment/self employment: Artist/designer blacksmith
Further study at Herefordshire College of Technology:
- Advanced Apprenticeship (anticipated to be available from September 2013)
- BA (Hons) Artist Blacksmithing (in association with Hereford College of Arts)
Key Facts
Venue: Rural Crafts Centre - Holme Lacy Campus
Level: Level 3 (Advanced)
Attendance: 10 block weeks over 2 years (compulsory attendance)
Course Costs:
16 - 18 year olds do not have to pay tuition fees but material fees still apply (£25 per week - totalling £250)
For adults (aged 19+) the following fees apply:
- Tuition fee: £750
- Materials fee: £250
- Assessment fee: £150
Total: £1150 (can be paid by installment)
Please Note: Course fees are subject to change, please call 0800 032 1986 for the latest details.
Dates:
- Week 1: 17th December 2012
- Week 2: 18th February 2013
- Week 3: 8th April 2013
- Week 4: 1st July 2013
- Week 5: 19th August 2013
- 2013-14 dates TBC
Interview date: Tuesday 30th October 2012
Contact:
Contact Name: Adrian Legge
Telephone:
0800 032 1986
Email: enquiries@hct.ac.uk
