OUR OBJECTIVES

To foster the crafts of traditional Joinery and Cabinet Making by providing education and training to a wide variety of people from a diverse range of backgrounds, to ensure traditional heritage skills and knowledge are passed on for generations to come, including the skills required to preserve heritage assets and architecture.  

WHAT WE DO

We aim to offer the highest standard of quality in educational courses in both Traditional Joinery and Cabinet Making, from short taster courses to full-time year-long courses leading vocational qualifications. We also aim to help with the preservation of local heritage assets as part of the taught curriculum, therefore enhancing both students’ knowledge and practical skills in Heritage Joinery, and benefiting and enhancing heritage sites in the local area. 

WHY WE DO IT

The skills of traditional joinery hold significant historic and cultural value. They represent an invaluable part of our collective heritage, reflecting centuries of craftsmanship and expertise passed down through generations. Here are some aspects that highlight the historic and cultural significance of traditional joinery skills:

Preservation of Architectural Heritage: Traditional joinery techniques have been employed in the construction and preservation of historic buildings, monuments, and structures throughout history. These skills have contributed to the creation of architectural marvels, such as intricate woodwork in stately homes, ornate carvings in churches, and traditional timber-framed structures. By preserving and promoting these skills, we ensure the continued existence and authenticity of our architectural heritage.

Link to Artisanal Traditions: Traditional joinery embodies the spirit of craftsmanship and the traditions of artisanal work. The mastery of intricate joinery techniques requires patience, skill, and attention to detail. The knowledge and techniques passed down from master craftsmen to apprentices carry the essence of our cultural identity and serve as a testament to the dedication and artistry of previous generations.

Sustainable Materials: Traditional joinery often utilises locally sourced and sustainable materials, such as timber, which contributes to the preservation of natural resources and supports environmentally friendly practices. These materials are carefully selected for their durability, strength, and aesthetic qualities, ensuring that the finished products withstand the test of time.

Cultural Identity and Regional Variation: Traditional joinery techniques often vary across regions, reflecting the distinct cultural and architectural characteristics of different areas. Local styles, motifs, and construction methods are preserved and celebrated through the craftsmanship of traditional joinery. These skills contribute to the diversity and richness of our cultural landscape, allowing us to appreciate and understand the unique heritage of different communities.

Continuity and Connection: By learning and practicing traditional joinery skills, we maintain a tangible connection to our past. Each piece crafted using these techniques becomes a link in a chain of knowledge and tradition that stretches back centuries. By upholding these skills, we honour the contributions and legacy of previous generations, ensuring that their craft and expertise are not lost to time.

By recognizing and promoting the importance of these skills, we can ensure their continued appreciation and safeguard the legacy of traditional joinery for future generations.

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