Industry and Education Unite as UTC Sheffield Launches Specialist New T Level
Published: 28th April 2026
UTC Sheffield City Centre is set to launch an exciting new T Level qualification in Jewellery and Silversmithing from September 2026, creating fresh opportunities for 16 to 19-year-olds to develop specialist skills and progress into rewarding careers.
Since opening in 2013, UTC Sheffield City Centre has worked closely with employers across engineering, advanced manufacturing, and the creative and digital sectors to ensure students gain the technical knowledge, academic qualifications and workplace experience needed for success in key growth industries.
The new T Level has been developed in partnership with The Goldsmiths' Company, Yorkshire Artspace, Sheffield Assay Office, and local Sheffield jewellers and silversmiths. Together, they will help shape a curriculum that reflects real industry needs while inspiring the next generation of designers, makers and craftspeople.
In recognition of Sheffield’s proud industrial heritage, the programme will be based in the former Yorkshire Artspace building, now part of the UTC campus. Historically linked to silversmithing, the site provides a fitting home for a course that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern industry skills.
Last week, Alex Reynolds, Principal of UTC Sheffield City Centre, welcomed Ashley Carson, Assay Master at Sheffield Assay Office, Sara Hale, Head of Commercial Operations at Sheffield Assay Office, and Georgina Kettlewell, Director of Yorkshire Artspace, to the UTC to discuss the future of the programme and how industry partners can support the growth of new talent across the region.
The new qualification marks another major step forward for UTC Sheffield City Centre as it continues to connect education with industry and provide clear pathways into highly skilled careers.
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 ,
Sign up here to all the latest news from Sheffield Assay Office direct to your inbox