For John, blacksmithing is a craft rooted in precision, patience and deep respect for tradition. Having joined Holme Lacy College directly into the current year of the Level 3 Blacksmithing course, John has found the experience both technically demanding and immensely rewarding.
Originally from Wiltshire, John’s journey to Holme Lacy began through industry connections. After completing work experience with respected local blacksmith, Hector Cole, he was encouraged to explore specialist colleges that could help him refine his skills. “Holme Lacy came highly recommended,” John explains. “Once I came to an open day, I knew straight away this was the place for me.” The scale of the facilities made a lasting impression, from the sheer number of forges to the generous access to materials and space. “It’s incredibly inspiring just being here,” he adds. “You hear that it’s one of the largest collections of forges in Europe, and you can really feel that when you’re working.”
Boarding locally, John fully immerses himself in college life. Being nearby allows him to attend additional forging sessions, often working alongside university students. These sessions give him the freedom to experiment, practise techniques from class, and work on personal pieces or commissions. “It’s rare to find that level of access,” he says. “You’re trusted to use the facilities properly and really make the most of them.”
John particularly enjoys the structured progression of the course. Early on, there is a strong focus on mastering essential techniques such as fire welding, which then underpin more complex projects later in the year. His current hanging basket bracket project has been a highlight, allowing him to develop advanced scrollwork and refine scarf and side-by-side welds. “We spent a good few weeks just practising welds,” he says. “That repetition is challenging, but I love it. It really builds confidence in your abilities.”
The intensive drawing element of the course has also played a key role in his development. “There’s a lot of drawing,” John admits, “but because of that, you improve really quickly. It sharpens how you think about design and how things come together.”
The close-knit nature of the course has had a significant impact on John’s experience. With a small cohort, he describes the environment as supportive, welcoming and collaborative. “The tutors work so well together, even when things get busy,” he says. “There’s always someone there to help push you forward.” He also draws inspiration from learning under tutors who are active, award-winning blacksmiths, often seeing them compete at national shows he attends himself.
Looking ahead, John plans to remain at Holme Lacy to complete his diploma before gaining further experience working alongside other blacksmiths. His long-term ambition is to specialise in traditional tool making, creating tools to support other heritage crafts. “I’ve grown up around traditional skills,” he explains, “and I want to support that world through what I make.” His advice to prospective students is simple: “If you enjoy working with your hands and want the freedom to create, blacksmithing offers endless possibilities, especially here at Holme Lacy College.”
