Enrolments for new culturally relevant Birmingham-based jewellery training programme, the MasterPeace Academy, now open!
18 Dec 2020
Following the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement earlier in the year, the NAJ was delighted to be approached by local jeweller Norma Jean Banton, who had a vision to deliver culturally relevant jewellery training to young adults in the Birmingham area.
Norma and her group of eight Black Jewellery Quarter Guild tutors, most of whom are of African Caribbean descent, will deliver the training through the banner of the MasterPeace Academy, from their newly refurbished workshop at 48, Vyse Street.
More information
Training will last for 6 months (part-time) and a partnership established with the Birmingham Adult Educations Service means that students will graduate from the programme with a fully-funded Level 2 City and Guilds Jewellery Manufacturing qualification.
Alongside their jewellery training, students will also be exposed to African Caribbean heritage and culture and will learn basic Swahili. They will also have the opportunity to undertake a short work placement with one of the big employers in the Jewellery Quarter.
Graduates of the programme will have made an important first step on their jewellery career journey, and will be well-prepared to progress to a Level 3 City and Guilds qualification, a Level 3 jewellery manufacturing qualification or perhaps even their first jewellery industry job.
The project set-up including workshop fit out, equipment purchase and tutor preparation has only been possible because of the generous support of The Goldsmiths Company, Beaverbrooks, The Benevolent Society and Cooksongold and of the NAJ President, David Doyle, who has worked tirelessly to support Norma and her team in bringing this project to fruition.
Of the project, David Doyle commented,
The MasterPeace Academy training programme will create a long-lasting legacy helping to make the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter and, in turn, the jewellery industry, more accessible to those who might not have otherwise entered the trade.
Of the MasterPeace Academy vision, Norma said,
The MasterPeace Academy will make technical training and fresh opportunities accessible to local young people whilst bringing diversity, inclusion, fresh lifeblood and energy to the British Jewellery Trade, presenting hope for a brighter, more colourful future for all involved.
Marie Garnett, Head of Education added,
I am delighted that the NAJ has had the opportunity to support this inspirational project, providing opportunities for these young people to begin their learning journey through nationally recognised qualifications and training pathways that will set them up for a rewarding and valuable career in the jewellery industry.
MasterPeace Academy is now taking interest for 2021 programmes.
Assessment sessions will take place week beginning 11th January 2021 and teaching will commence on the week beginning 18th January.
Register Interest now
Source: The National Association of Jewellers