Advanced Stonemasonry Diploma

City & Guilds Advanced Stonemasonry Diploma

Is the course for me?

The Stonemasonry Diploma is a one year full time course designed to give students a wide range of stone carving skills that will ultimately employment or self employment.
During the year you will gain essential drawing skills, learn how to work with hand tools, portable power tools and fixed stone cutting saws. Working mainly with Portland stone, you will learn basic carving and letter cutting and will design and build a section of classical masonry with your class.

You will commence by working towards an ICA (Intermediate Construction Award) followed by an ACA (Advanced Construction Award) in Banker Masonry and these qualifications form part of the Diploma. You will begin your training by learning how to square a block of stone, cut various shapes and mouldigns and finally complete complex free hand carving and letter cutting.

Ultimately your advanced skills will lead you toward making 'student centred' projects incorporating your own ideas and reflecting your personal interest in stonework. A certain amount of private study is essential to augment your practical and design skills. To encourage you to take studying seriously, visits to professional workshops, museums and galleries will be arranged by your tutors.
What does the course involve?
You will Learn about:

● Health and safety
● Advanced moulds and templets
● Hand tools
● Store materials and equipment
● Erect and dismantle basic working platforms Drawing and Design
● Work efficiently Make set stone pieces (City and Guilds test piece)
● Use portable power tools Make your own designed pieces
● Produce setting out details
How will I learn?
You will learn in a variety of ways:

Hands on practical working with stone
Classroom work: Theory, drawing and design
Dedicated tutorial time with your year instructor
Visits to galleries, workshops and museums
Private study
Self motivation
The Stonemasonry Diploma opens up many opportunities for you to develop your stone carving skills to a very high standard. You will have good access to College facilities, dedicated tutorial time with your year tutor (instructor) and will meet professional visiting tutors who can give advice about stone carving design and career matters.
What will I need for the course?

Motivation and enthusiasm
Patience and the ability to focus on your work
A strong interest in problem solving
A passion for stone based crafts
Steel toe boots or shoes.

All other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be supplied as and when required. Drawing and marking equipment will also be supplied as and when required, although you are welcome to bring your own.
All hand and Portable Power Tools will be supplied, but you are encouraged to bring your own hand tools provided they meet the Health and Safety requirements and are in good working order.
What options are open to me if I successfully complete the course?

This is a nationally recognised qualification that prepares you for work in the stonemasonry industry.
We are constantly building links with employers throughout the country and your tutors will encourage you to seek work experience during the College holidays.
What qualifications or experience do I need to get on the course?

The Stonemasonry Diploma is a diverse and dynamic course. It appeals to students across the age and experience spectrum. We do not ask for specific qualifications though good communication skills and basic maths are desirable. Total commitment to work and study are essential for you to achieve the required standards in all areas of the course.
After we have received your application we will invite you for an informal interview and a tour of the College.
Length and start date of the course:
The duration of the course is 1 year full time, and is spread over 3 terms. The course starts in September.
Cost

£1,950 per term or £5,850 per year.