Jewellery and Silversmithing

T Level Craft and Design

Become part of Sheffield’s next generation of makers.

Students on our Jewellery and Silversmithing pathway study T Level Craft and Design which combines traditional craftsmanship with modern design and manufacturing techniques, giving you the skills, knowledge and industry experience needed to progress into the jewellery, silversmithing and wider creative industries.

The qualification has been developed in partnership with leading industry organisations, including The Goldsmiths’ Company, Sheffield Assay Office, Aston University Goldsmiths Institute (AUGI), Yorkshire Artspace, and local jewellery and silversmithing businesses, ensuring your learning reflects the needs of today’s industry.

Whether you aspire to become a jewellery designer, silversmith, maker, craftsperson, product designer or creative entrepreneur, this course will help you build a strong foundation for your future.

A History of Metalworking

Sheffield has been at the forefront of metalworking and silversmithing for generations. From master craftsmen to internationally recognised manufacturers, the city has built a reputation for excellence in design and production.

Jewellery and Silversmithing students will be taught in a brand new workshop within Sydney Works, the historic original part of UTC Sheffield City Centre. Once home to silversmiths, cutlery manufacturers and other metalworking businesses, Sydney Works played a role in Sheffield’s world-famous silver and cutlery industries before becoming a centre for creative arts. Today, students will learn the skills of the future in the very building where Sheffield’s manufacturing heritage was shaped.

What is a T Level?

T Levels are new two-year course which will follow on from GCSEs and are equivalent to three A Levels. These two-year courses have been developed in collaboration with employers and businesses so that the content meets the needs of industry and prepares learners like you for work.

Every T Level includes an in-depth industry placement lasting a minimum of 45 days. Where students will get invaluable experience in the workplace leading to an employer set project.

What will you study?

Our Jewellery and Silversmithing students will study T Level Craft and Design.

Students benefit from:

• A specialist workshop and industry-standard equipment
• A curriculum shaped by jewellery and silversmithing professionals
• Opportunities to work on live projects and design briefs
• Industry placements with local and national employers
• Access to professional networks across the jewellery and precious metals sector
• Expert teaching from experienced creative and technical staff

Students develop skills in:

• Jewellery design and visual communication
• Drawing and design development
• Handmaking and bench skills
• Silversmithing techniques
• Materials and manufacturing processes
• Creative problem solving
• Product development
• Digital design technologies
• Business and professional practice
• Health and safety within creative production environments

Alongside technical skills, students develop the teamwork, communication and project management skills valued by employers across the creative industries.

Industry Placement

Students spend time working with employers, gaining valuable experience in professional environments and applying skills to real-world projects. These placements help students to build confidence, develop industry connections and gain first-hand insight into career opportunities within the jewellery and silversmithing sector.