What will I learn?
This 10-week beginner-level course introduces you to the essential techniques of silver jewellery making and aims to build foundational jewellery-making skills whilst developing your ability to design and craft silver pieces from scratch. You will make several pieces over the term, such as a ring, pendant or earrings, while building skills and confidence in a supportive environment. By the end of the course, you will be able to use a range of jewellery tools and equipment safely and effectively, accurately measure, cut, shape and solder silver, explore and apply different texturing, forming and finishing techniques, design and make at least 2-3 complete items, apply critical thinking to evaluate and improve your work, and work independently with growing confidence and creativity.

What will I need to take part?
All tools, materials (including a small amount of silver), and safety equipment will be provided. Additional silver may be available for purchase if you wish to make more items. Please bring an apron with you or wear old clothes, tie long hair back and avoid wearing loose clothing and open-toed shoes. You will be working on a small scale, so it is advisable to bring your glasses with you. Hand dexterity is also required to manipulate the materials. A notebook and pen are useful to take notes. No prior experience is necessary, just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn!

What to expect
This course offers a fun and relaxed environment where creativity and learning go hand in hand. The course will be delivered through a combination of tutor-led demonstrations of each technique, hands-on practice and project-based learning, design and development activities, peer discussion and feedback, ongoing support and 1:1 guidance. Tutors use Google Classroom to help make course resources available both during and between sessions. Please take advantage of joining your Classroom when invited to do so. For IT help please visit https://learners.northantsadultlearning.ac.uk/it-tips

Where can it lead to?
This Silver jewellery course is a great stepping stone for anyone interested in pursuing jewellery making as a hobby, a craft business, and even a future career. Jewellery making can also help to support self-expression, resilience and confidence building and provide a creative outlet that can help to improve mental health and wellbeing. Possible progression could include Silver Jewellery Intermediate, Silver Jewellery Workshops and accredited or formal qualifications and higher education. You tutor will also be able to advise on next steps and progression opportunities.

Course eligibility and fees
This course is for residents of Northamptonshire aged 19+. Fees are payable on enrolment as published on the booking page. If you are in receipt of certain benefits or in employment and earning a low salary, you could be eligible for reduced fees. If you are not sure what support you are eligible for please phone our office between 10-4 on weekdays 0300 303 1058 or email adultlearning@northnorthants.gov.uk.