Goldsmiths’ Landmark Programme reaches more than 1,600 people in first year

The Goldsmiths’ Foundation has marked the first anniversary of its Landmark Programme with the publication of its inaugural Impact Report, showing the initiative has reached 1,601 people across prisons, schools and communities in its first year.

Launched in November 2023, the programme awarded four multi-year grants of £500,000 each to transformational projects designed to accelerate skills development and creativity across the UK.

Aston University Engineering Academy established the Goldsmiths Institute to reinvigorate pathways into goldsmithing, silversmithing and allied trades, from primary schools through to the UK’s first Jewellery T-Level course and work placements in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.

Meanwhile, The National Literacy Trust created the Goldsmiths 500 Writers challenge, a three-year initiative improving literacy skills among more than 1,000 children in disadvantaged communities in Bradford through writing, teacher training and cultural visits.

St Giles Trust launched a peer empowerment programme in five prisons, enabling learners to support others while achieving a Level 3 qualification in Advice and Guidance, building skills for employment and long-term reintegration.

Additionally, St Paul’s Cathedral began a major restoration of its Cupola, Ball and Cross, training apprentices in heritage crafts such as masonry, gilding and lead working as part of the conservation project.

Early milestones also include the National Literacy Trust doubling the number of children it plans to reach in Bradford, St Giles adapting its programme to meet challenges in the criminal justice system, St Paul’s using its grant to develop the International Wren Centre of Excellence, and Aston welcoming the UK’s first Jewellery T-Level cohort.

Michelle O’Brien, foundation director, said: “One year in, our Landmark Programme has reached 1,601 people. From young jewellers finding their passion in Birmingham to children discovering their voice in Bradford, we’re seeing the power of skills development to unlock potential. This is just the beginning.”

Annie Warburton, CEO and clerk of the Goldsmiths’ Company, added: “The span of projects is remarkable – from equipping prison leavers with skills to training the next generation for Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, and from inspiring reluctant young readers to restoring the tip of St Paul’s Cathedral. At the heart of this programme are people, practice and places.”

Warburton concluded: “One year in, we couldn’t be prouder of our partners. With grit, imagination and determination, each is making a tangible difference in their communities. We can’t wait to see what they do next.”