Contemporary Jewellery & Bench Skills Course - 1 year duration
Industry Insight & Studio Visits
As part of the programme, students will have the opportunity to visit working jewellers and industry professionals.
These visits offer a valuable insight into real-world studio practice, allowing you to see how skills learned in the workshop are applied in a professional setting.
Where possible, visits may also include organisations such as assay offices or specialist workshops, helping to broaden your understanding of the wider jewellery industry.
Course Details
Duration: Late August to Late May
Schedule: One full day per week
Total Sessions: 30 full-day classes
Time: 10:30am – 5:00pm (including a 45-minute lunch break)
Location: The School of Jewellery Ireland, Dublin
One-Year Contemporary Jewellery & Bench Skills
Suitable for beginners and intermediate students
Limited to just 7 places
This one-year programme is designed for those who want to fully commit to developing their jewellery-making skills in a structured and supportive environment.
The course is built around a project-based curriculum, where each student works through a series of practical exercises and customisable jewellery projects. This approach ensures that technical skills are developed alongside creative thinking and personal design direction.
You’ll be guided step-by-step through core bench skills, while also being encouraged to explore more contemporary techniques and processes.
Subjects covered include, but are not limited to:
Saw piercing
Soldering
Filing and finishing
Metal forming and forging
Texturing techniques
Stone setting
Wax carving and casting
Chain making
And more
By the end of the programme, you will:
Have a strong foundation in core jewellery-making techniques
Be confident working independently at the bench
Understand how to approach and complete your own projects
Have produced a collection of finished pieces reflecting your progress
For many students, this course marks the transition from beginner to competent maker.
Most materials are included as part of the programme, allowing you to focus on developing your skills. For the final project, students are encouraged to design their own piece, with the option to purchase materials that best suit their ideas and direction.
Course fee: €4,200