Forging New Futures: Industry Supports the Next Generation of Makers
Published: 17th July 2026
Sheffield Assay Office welcomed representatives from across the trade to Guardians’ Hall yesterday for an industry engagement event supporting the new T Level in Craft and Design, specialising in Jewellery, Silversmithing and Fine Metalwork.
Alex Reynolds, Principal of UTC Sheffield City Centre, introduced the new two-year course, which will launch in September 2026 for students aged 16 to 18. He explained how the programme has been developed to combine technically focused learning with meaningful industry experience, helping to create a much-needed pipeline of skilled young people entering the trade.
A key part of the course will be a 315-hour industry placement. Alex discussed the different ways businesses can get involved, recognising that the traditional placement model may not always suit smaller workshops and independent makers. Placements can be shared across several employers and may include small team projects, specialist skills training and carefully managed simulated activities.
The event provided a valuable opportunity for trade members to learn more about the course, ask questions and begin exploring how the industry can work collectively to give students a broad and meaningful experience.
With skills shortages presenting a growing challenge across jewellery and silversmithing, creating clear and accessible routes into the trade has never been more important. Sheffield Assay Office is proud to support UTC Sheffield and to help bring together education and industry to protect and develop these specialist skills.
Thank you to Alex and everyone who joined us and contributed to such a positive and constructive discussion. This was an important first step, and we look forward to building on the ideas and connections made.
The Sheffield Assay Office was established in 1773, under an Act of Parliament and today the company assays and hallmarks the precious metals - silver, gold, platinum and palladium. Sheffield Assay Office is one of only four UK assay offices who all work to uphold the Hallmarking Act of 1973 and continue to ensure consumer protection for customers purchasing precious metals.
To find out more about the whole range of services offered by Sheffield Assay Office, such as our hallmarking and analytical services, please email us at info@assayoffice.co.uk or complete the contact form on our website at http://www.assayoffice.co.uk/contact-us ,
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