Designing and shaping metal components for small batch or bespoke production
Overview
This Advanced blacksmith apprenticeship standard will provide you with a level 3, qualification. This apprenticeship standard was approved on the 03/02/2020 and typically takes 48 months to complete. However, it is important to note that the duration of the apprenticeship standard stated does not include the End-Point Assessment period.
What the course covers
Working as a Blacksmith apprentice, you will learn how to work with metal components using hot forging techniques to produce a range of metal products, from small-scale items like railings, gates, and fireplaces, to large-scale public sculptures and props for TV and film. You will also produce tools for your own use, such as tongs, spanners and woodturning equipment.
You will often work with a small team of blacksmiths, initially under the supervision of an experienced professional, as you build towards working more independently. You will commonly focus on a specific technical aspect of blacksmithing, such as architectural or heritage work. For the larger items you produce, you will also be expected to work with other craftspeople to support with the installation process, and sites may include large corporate developments or private homes. You may interact in the equine field with farriers.
You will follow strict health and safety regulations both in the forge and on-site, and develop your knowledge of processes that protect yourself and the people you work with, including hazard recognition and the correct disposal of waste. You will also learn to produce technical drawings and specifications using Computer-Aided Design programmes (CAD), and use appropriate calculations to create templates and complex jigs.
Careers and jobs associated
- Blacksmith
Visit the blacksmith apprenticeship standard, on the Institute for Apprenticeships site, to find further information on skills and knowledge learnt, assessment methods and more.
