Foundation Degree in Arts - Metalwork

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Applications for 2023 are not accepted any longer.
The school will continue taking applications from 2024.

Develop well-rounded metalworking theory and skills that will enhance your employment prospects or allow you to continue your studies in higher education. Projects become more challenging as the course progresses and encompasses both silversmithing and blacksmithing. You will be encouraged to understand historic craft practice in order to place your own work in a broader context and gain a keen understanding of the time needed for a piece of work in a creative, problem-solving environment.
West Dean College of Arts and Conservation has an international reputation for excellence in conservation and arts education. There is a rich arts environment and a focus on craft skills with vocational application. Be inspired by the unique historic character and beautiful South Downs setting. Located close to Chichester and the South Coast, with easy access to London.

You can expect

• To develop excellent practical skills
• To learn how material properties influence practice and making
• To learn historic metalwork techniques
• To learn from dedicated and experienced tutors who are practicing professionals and well-connected in the sector

Learning environment

• Low student: tutor ratio
• Workshop access 8.30am-10pm, 7 days a week
• Interdisciplinary environment
• Visits from practicing crafts-persons and specialists from the heritage and private sectors
• Visits to museums and active links with heritage bodies
• Work placements and work-related projects

Exceptional facilities
You will work in our well-equipped metals workshop with areas for photography, analysis, chemicals, hot work (casting, soldering, and welding) and a machine shop. Adjacent to the workshop is the newly-built forge to which you will have access. Collaboration with other conservation specialisms makes for a uniquely enriched learning environment. Shared facilities include:

• Analytical laboratory
• Photography space
• IT suite with access to specialist databases
• Specialist on-site art and conservation library with thousands of specialist books and journals

Modules
HC-M1 Materials Technology: delivered in pathway workshop and cross-curricular, HC-D1 Drawing and Aesthetics, HC-R1 Study/Research Skills, HC-M2 Materials Technology (Metal/Wood): delivered in pathway workshop and cross-curricular, HC-H2 History of Craft, HC-C2M1/C/F/ME Craft Skills, HC-P3 Professional Skills incl. work placement, HC-R1 Study/Research Skills, HC-C1M1/C/ME Craft Skills, HC-P4 Professional Portfolio: student led. Modules correct at October 2019, they may be subject to change.

Hours
You are taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, external trips and visits and workshop practicals. In addition, you have personal tutorials with your subject tutor. 2 years course. 

At level 4 you typically have around 18-19 contact hours per week.
Level 4: 53% of your time is spent in scheduled teaching and learning activity
Scheduled teaching and learning: 633 hours
Independent learning: 567 hours

At level 5 you typically have around 16-17 contact hours per week.
Level 5: 50% of your time is spent in scheduled teaching and learning activity
Scheduled teaching and learning: 600 hours
Independent learning: 600 hours