H&I Craft Academy

The H&I Craft Academy has been created to help further the future of craft, offering talented individuals the opportunity to kick start their future and take part in a series of jewellery making internships and apprenticeships. Applications for our 8-week paid silversmith internship, starting in July, is open to all third year students on a BA (Hons) Jewellery and Silversmithing Course in Scotland, resulting in a Hamilton & Inches recognised qualification and £1,500 grant.

In 2022, in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee, we are also proud to announce a search for a polisher who will be offered a four-year paid apprenticeship.

Be part of something unique. Find out more about our opportunities, and apply, below.

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Current Opportunities

Every year, we run two jewellery making internship programmes in January and July. Open to third year students studying a relevant degree at a Scottish University, the programme offers you practical experience working at a jeweller and silversmith with over 156 years experience. Your internship will offer first hand access to learn from our silversmiths, goldsmiths, hand-engravers, polishers and wider team. Explore our current opportunities.

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8-week silversmith internship 2

Description:

If you are a third-year student studying a relevant degree at the Edinburgh College of Art, you can apply for an 8-12 week paid internship in silversmithing culminating in a £1500 grant.

Duration:

8 – 12 weeks (flexible)

Internship Period:

End January

Application Deadline:

30th November 2022

Required Qualifications:

Third year student studying relevant degree at Edinburgh College of Art

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Apprentice polisher

Description:

It takes years of experience and lots of practice to ensure each item is perfectly finished, without losing its unique character. This is a rare and unique opportunity to learn from our Master Polisher and some of the finest craftspeople in the UK.

Duration:

4 years

Requirements:

Aged 16+ and eligible to work in the UK. Must be fluent in written and verbal English.

Remuneration:

Living wage salary

Deadline:

31st December 2022

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The World of Hamilton & Inches

Hamilton & Inches has been a premiere Edinburgh destination for hand-crafted silver, fine jewellery and premium watches since we opened our doors in 1866. As a proud Royal Warrant Holder, we have been found at 87 George Street since 1952 and are incredibly proud of our Grade-A Listed showroom, workshops, service department and more.

LEARN ABOUT US

“I joined the H&I team in 2018 following a tour of the workshops during my third year at University. I left that day knowing exactly where I wanted to work.” - Jenna Watson, Goldsmith

Learn More About H&I

For over 156 years Hamilton & Inches’ talented craftspeople have passed their knowledge and skills from one generation to the next. Find out more about how we help keep craft alive in Scotland.

MEET THE TEAM

Our team of craftspeople are all experts in their field, on hand to ensure you get the most out of our time with Hamilton & Inches.

MEET THE TEAM

OUR WORKSHOP

Step inside the world of Hamilton & Inches. Our workshops, in the heart of Edinburgh, boast stunning views and an authentic working environment.

OUR WORKSHOP

OUR PARTNERS

We are lucky to work with a number of partners who help support the H&I Craft Academy including the Edinburgh College of Art and more.

OUR PARTNERS

Frequently Asked Questions

Find out more about the Hamilton & Inches Craft Academy, including how long the internship runs for, details of payment, how you can apply and more.

We run two intakes per year. The first runs from July for 8 weeks and the second runs from the end of January.

Third year students studying a relevant silversmith or jewellery degree in Scotland can apply. If you are not in third year, please register your interest for a future intake. Please note: our winter intake is open to students from the Edinburgh College of Art only.

The internship will run between six and twelve weeks dependent on availability.

You must be a third year student about to embark on your fourth year of study. Our winter intake is open to Edinburgh College of Art students only.

The internship will see you work predominantly within the silversmith department, a team of four enthusiastic, brilliant young people. You will also work with the goldsmiths, hand-engravers, polishers and wider team on occasion.

You will be paid living wage during your time with us.

You will receive £1,500 towards your final project, payable via your university, a H&I Craft Academy certificate to show completion of the internship and employment reference for future opportunities.

Please send your CV and cover letter to us by clicking the apply button. You will then be invited to an interview stage with our workshop manager.

Craft Your Future

Hamilton & Inches has been helping people craft their future since 1866. Find out more about our team and life at H&I and how our Craft Academy can help develop your skills further.

DISCOVER OUR WORKSHOP