Blacksmithing: Design and Forgework Skills
Course Rationale
The DFS programme is a joint venture between The British Artist Blacksmiths Association (BABA) and Herefordshire, Ludlow & North Shropshire College (HLNSC). 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 blacksmiths.
Course Content
Subject matter will be drawn from the following list of approved units:
- Unit 1 - Forging techniques
- Unit 2 - Forge practice
- Unit 3 - Drawing practice
- Unit 4 - Blacksmithing processes
- Unit 5 - Blacksmithing construction skills
- Unit 6 - Blacksmithing installation skills
- Unit 11 - Large scale design
- Unit 12 - 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 an English and Maths Initial assessment to determine individual needs.
Entry Requirements
A good level of English and Maths (Grade C or equivalent) You will need to demonstrate your forging ability so a portfolio of evidence will be required at interview. A forging assessment will also be conducted to make sure you are suitable for the programme. You will also need to have access to a fully working forge (to include power hammer) for at least 6-8 hours per week to complete your assignments when you are not in college.
Facilities and Resources
HLNSC has outstanding resources for blacksmiths and farriers that include 56 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.
Progression Routes
Employment/self-employment:
- Artist/designer blacksmith
Further study at Herefordshire, Ludlow & North Shropshire College:
- BA (Hons) Artist Blacksmithing (in association with Hereford College of Arts)
Key Facts
Venue: Holme Lacy Campus
Level: Level 3 (Advanced)
Day: Block Release
Time: 09:30 - 16:30
Duration: 2 years
Start Date: August/September 2022
Fee (19+): £3,515.00
For those aged 19 years and over, find out about Advanced Learner Loans
Please Note: Course fees are subject to change, please call 0800 032 1986 for the latest details.
Contact
Telephone: 0800 032 1986
Email: admissions@hlcollege.ac.uk