Course Introduction
Unique to Cornwall, this Silversmithing and Jewellery course is aimed at students who wish to focus on the vocational aspects of these specialist areas.
Through problem-solving assignments you will take a creative approach in a range of craft skills, materials and technologies, developing a high level of professional competence. You have the opportunity to develop traditional craftsmanship in areas such as raising, planishing, box making, making settings and findings, setting stones as well as researching new technologies. An emphasis will be placed on the pursuit of business acumen, allowing you to compete in the modern craft world.
Participation in design competitions are encouraged in such diverse subject matters as the BAMS medal designs (British Art Medal Society), Pewter Live organised and held by The Worshipful Company of Pewterers a 600-year-old traditional guild, an opportunity to win a precious metal bursary curtesy of Goldsmiths Centre London and an additional opportunity to win the Goldsmiths Design and Craft Council Award.
The FdA is an intensive two year course after which students will develop a sound knowledge of the manufacturing industry together with the confidence and craftsmanship skills of designing and making jewellery and silverware. The personal development module will prepare the individual for self-employment or employment within the jewellery industry and workshop environment.
On successful completion of the Foundation Diploma (FdA), the College offers and supports students looking to further their design and making development with a one year BA (hons) study programme, the culmination of which is a placement at the New Designers Exhibition at the Design Centre, Islington, London. All participants work will be open to a National audience, many of whom are gallery owners or private collectors of jewellery and silverware.
FDA & BA (Hons) Silvrsmithng & Jewellery. Truro College of Art and Design
I was over the moon to discover that I could study a degree in silversmithing and jewellery in my home county of Cornwall. Each module had a theme to design and make something new, helping us to incorporate new techniques and practice along the way. It was invaluable to have the use of two fully equipped workshop.
Throughout the course we had the opportunity to enter several competitions. This encouraged me to think of specific design briefs and really pushed me to try out new ideas.
At the end of each year the Arts department have an exhibition at the Lemon Quay in Truro. This is a great experience and gives you an insight into what is involved in setting up an exhibition.
This experience helped to prepare us for New Designers, which is held at the end of our third year. This was the most exciting experience. This was so good for networking and seeing all the other graduates work.
My advice to anyone who is thinking about enrolling on the course is to go for it. I found the best way to learn was to fully immerse myself in this world and I have not looked back. I haven’t stopped learning and continue to do so. The environment at Truro and Penwith College was so welcoming.
The Silversmithing and Jewellery course at Truro College was a very rewarding experience for me. The course gave me a really broad range of silversmithing and jewellery making skills but what I loved the most was the art and design education. It was amazing!
The college environment was busy and thriving and the art department gave you access to a range of craft practices which came in quite handy. The other thing the course did was to build my confidence as an artist. We were encouraged to compete in national competitions and I was placed in two of them which was such a boost for me.
Since leaving the course I have set up my own business, self employed, and have had a selection my designs exhibited in a few galleries.
Student success
Select any of the links below for further course information, visit our amazing virtual exhibition and keep up to date with students work with Instagram.
If you have any questions about the aims, content or outcomes of the course, Martin is on hand to assist you, answer your questions and offer further guidance. Simply complete the form below and click SEND.
Truro College Art and Design 