Jewellery Foundation Programme: training to shape your jewellery career
Are you aged 18 or older and passionate about working with your hands? Do you want to start shaping your future in the world of jewellery-making? The Goldsmiths' Centre’s Jewellery Foundation Programme is the perfect stepping stone to kick off your career as a goldsmith, diamond mounter or setter.
Whether you’ve recently completed your A or T-Levels or are an entry-level candidate eager to begin your journey, our year-long training programme equips the next generation of craftsmen and craftswomen with the skills and knowledge needed to meet professional standards and thrive in the jewellery industry. You’ll learn from industry experts and professionals, gaining hands-on experience in traditional and modern jewellery-making techniques.
Full-time. 1 academic year.
Course dates: Mon 8 September 2025 - Fri 3 July 2026
Location: In person at the Goldsmiths’ Centre (EC1M 5AD, London)
Course fee: Free upon successful application
Class size: 10 students
Applications close: Scroll down and register your interest to be notified once applications open for 2026/27.
Like to know more? Just to talk to our team! Call 020 7566 7650 or email applications@goldsmiths-centre.org
The Jewellery Foundation Programme is a five day a week, full time course designed to help you develop design ideas while mastering the hand skills needed to create high-quality fine jewellery. Over 10 months, you’ll explore industry-orientated and market-focused methods, building skills that meet professional standards. This course is industry-backed and provides you with the opportunity to take part in live projects, competitions and work experience.
Limited to just ten spots, it’s your opportunity to get one-on-one tuition, learn specialist skills, collaborate with others, and develop a polished portfolio that shows off your talents. Apply today and take the first step towards a brilliant career in jewellery-making - your future starts here!
As a maker, it all comes down to the foundation you set early on. I can attribute pretty much everything that I've been able to do for my career, from the beginning to this point, to what I've learnt and who I've met at the Goldsmiths' Centre.
Hugo Johnson, Foundation Programme alumnus and Winner of BBC 2's "All That Glitters" Series 1
FAQs
You'll gain a wide range of skills, from designing and making jewellery, presenting your work to collaboration and using feedback to improve. The programme includes:
- Hands-on specialist jewellery making and design skills.
- Traditional hand skills techniques and commercial processes
- Work experience with a trusted business.
- Industry-oriented projects and competitions.
- A portfolio that showcase the full range of your skills.
Your work will be seen by industry professionals, potential employers, and more.
The Jewellery Foundation Programme is workshop based and covers:
- Fine jewellery.
- Gemstone setting.
- 2D design and drawing.
- Computer Aided Design (CAD) /Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM).
- Product development.
- Precision metalwork and quality control.
- Metallurgy and gemmology.
- Embellishment and smallwork.
- Production and repairs.
- Contextual and creative studies.
- Personal and professional development.
The Jewellery Foundation Programme focuses on fine jewellery, helping you develop high standards in both traditional and modern goldsmithing and setting skills. This training builds a strong foundation setting you on a rewarding career in the jewellery industry.
Upon course completion, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to apply for opportunities like the Goldsmiths’ Company Apprenticeship Scheme, Government Apprenticeships, industry jobs, or further/higher education courses.
Many of our trainees have pursued successful careers in areas such as diamond mounting, engraving, gemstone setting, and polishing. Notably, the programme has also launched the careers of the first-ever Jewellery Design and CAD/CAM apprentice. Whatever your passion in jewellery making, there’s likely a career progression waiting for you!
Enthusiasm and Patience
We’re looking for future professionals aged 18 or older who can show us their passion for the craft. If you love working with your hands, have the patience to work toward achieving precision and accuracy, and are willing to practice over many hours until you get it just right, the Jewellery Foundation Programme could be the perfect fit for you.
Commitment level
Keep in mind that the Jewellery Foundation Programme is a full-time year-long commitment. It takes place 5 days a week, 9am to 5pm at the Goldsmiths’ Centre. If you’re thinking about moving onto an apprenticeship afterwards, that’s another four-year commitment. Make sure you’re ready for that level of dedication. If you're up for the challenge and excited to be part of a team, we can’t wait to meet you!
How to apply
To apply, you’ll need to submit an application and a full portfolio of craft projects that you’re proud of. This portfolio should show us your personality, passion, and creative flair, as well as your interest in the industry. We welcome work from any medium, so whether you are into drawing, sculptures, woodwork, or anything in between, include it in your portfolio to demonstrate your crafting abilities to us.
Please apply if you:
- live in the United Kingdom, including Great Britain and Northern Ireland, or are able to relocate to London or the Southeast for the duration of the course. Please note that we cannot offer student visas to non-UK citizens, as we are not a licensed student sponsor. Relocation expenses are not covered as part of our Support Grants.
- can attend the Goldsmiths’ Centre from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, for 10 months.
- *have GCSE Grades 9-4 or above in Mathematics and English. We also welcome applications from those with non-standard qualifications, as long as you can demonstrate your abilities through sketchbooks or 2D/3D work in your portfolio.
Got more questions?
To find out more about the application process and the training programme itself, read our Guides below: