/// WHY I TEACH ///

It began back in 2017, I had finished my Masters and realised that other than booking a ten week self directed course at Wensum Lodge in Norwich there were very few, if any, options in Norfolk to have a taster of making your own jewellery. So I decided to offer just that, a variety of one off sessions where people could come with nothing more than their enthusiasm and learn to make their own unique recycled silver jewellery.

I'll be honest, I had never considered teaching previously and wasn't sure if I would enjoy it, or be good at it, but my passion for silversmithing and jewellery egged me on to make it as accessible to as many people as possible.

The first few sessions were heavily discounted, this way the student would get a bargain and I could get a feel for things. I also listened to feedback so I could tweak and hone the sessions to be as good as they could be.

Fast forward eight years later and I now have a teaching qualification, I taught the adult education classes which I started my journey in before deciding to head off to do a three year degree in it (sadly the local council decided to close all creative classes so these no longer exist) and have taught in some very nice places including stately homes and up in Scotland. The majority of my teaching is in my own studio, which I love.

What I really love about teaching is seeing the joy in peoples faces when they see their finished product and realise that yes, they did in fact make something they think is really good! Also I must mention the texturing, because everyone loves that part as essentially it's whacking things with a hammer and who doesn't love a bit of stress relief?!

I'm always looking to offer the best experience possible so forever evolving and trying to better myself. I'm open to feedback, seeing what works best first hand, using my own experiences as a student on various courses - what I appreciated most in how things were delivered, and the encouragement and support I found most useful. All these play a part in how I deliver my sessions. Not to mention understand group dynamics and different learning styles and abilities.

I strive to make my sessions inclusive and open to all. Yes you need good eyesight and dexterity HOWEVER if you aren't as agile with the fingers as you used to be that is ok, I will give you a helping hand where necessary. And if you are anxious about new experiences and need a bit more support and understanding, that's ok too. I realise teaching is not a one size fits all so I try my best to work around what would best help you to get the most of the session.

Coming to a session with me is more than the making of the item. It’s a chance to completely lose yourself in something new, to experience the mindfulness of craft, a break from reality for a little while. I know how much I benefit from that and I love seeing others enjoying the same thing. The most common feedback I receive, aside from being super proud of their achievements, was how lovely it was to be in their own little world for a while, doing something purely for themselves and with no outside distractions. Who doesn’t need that?!

The sessions I offer have increased; rings, earrings, bracelets, wedding rings, stone setting, casting, spoons, boxes, bowls, all sorts. If you are interested in something and you don't see it on my website, just ask as I am always happy to create a bespoke session. Silversmithing is a Heritage Craft and I am very proud to be able to pass on my skills and knowledge to as many people as are interested in my own little attempt to help keep these skills alive.

I send information before the session so you know what to expect and where to come, and when you arrive I go through what the session will cover then I leave you to look at examples while I pop indoors to make you a drink. I think this time is important so people can get a feel of their surroundings and relax, especially if they have driven a long way, before we get started.

And my current favourite is my five week course, which covers a wealth of techniques while you make various creations, taking you from beginner to competent. I love watching the students come in for week one, not being very confident in what they are doing or how the silver works, and by week five they are naturally working with the silver with ease, soldering is a doddle, they are setting stones, they are doing everything. It's great. I created the exact course I know I would have benefited from all those years ago and I am so pleased that so many people have joined me on it. It's really nice to look back and see just how hard I have worked, and how far I have come. Thank you for your support!