one year course

The one-year course is taught over 40 weeks with 240 direct teaching hours.

The course runs in 8-week blocks (with the exception of Term 5):

Term 1: 17 August – 5 October 2026
Autumn break: 12 October (returning 26 October)

Term 2: 26 October – 14 December 2026
Winter break: 21 December (returning 18 January)

Term 3: 18 January – 8 March 2027

Term 4: 15 March – 17 May 2027
Spring break: 29 March (returning 12 April)

Term 5: 24 May – 13 June 2027
Students participate in the graduation exhibition from 9–13 June 2027

Through our series of technical Master Classes students have the opportunity to explore different specialisms within the field of jewellery which also complements the core programme. Delivered by established designers and makers including Bryony Knox, Linda Lewin, Sheila McDonald, Lisa Arnott, Jessica Howarth and other guest designers.

Balancing one to one student tutorials, group crits and presentations our lead tutors on the course, Lisa and Jessica support students to push their learning and design development whilst expanding their technical abilities throughout the academic year.

Throughout the year students are not only developing a wide range technical abilities and a wealth of visual and material research but are also creating a portfolio of work. This portfolio can be used as a platform for application to higher education and contributes to the development of their final year jewellery collection.

Students who attend our course use it as a pathway to gain the required skills needed to apply to Higher Education or to work independently as a contemporary designer. Former students of our One Year course have successfully gained entry to degree and Master levels courses which include Glasgow School of Art, Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design, Birmingham School of Jewellery and Sheffield Hallam University.