Goldsmiths’ Centre appoints Julia Balchin as interim director

The Goldsmiths’ Centre has named Julia Balchin as its interim director, with her term beginning in March 2026. 

Balchin joins the organisation from the Royal Drawing School, where she served as principal and oversaw the charity’s expansion.

During a 15-year tenure at the Prince’s Charities, Balchin worked on skills-based arts education and craft preservation. 

At the Royal Drawing School, she presided over a 60% increase in assets over five years, securing more than £15m in donations and increasing commercial income by 68%.

Balchin succeeds Peter Taylor, who is departing after 37 years with the Goldsmiths’ Centre and the Goldsmiths’ Company. 

Taylor is credited with establishing the centre’s current training and professional development framework for jewellers and silversmiths.

The centre provides technical teaching alongside business start-up support and affordable workshops. 

Management stated that Balchin’s experience in the arts and education sectors would support the next phase of the charity’s vocational training programmes.

Balchin said: “I am honoured to take up the role – Peter leaves an indelible legacy – the work of the Goldsmiths’ Centre has been transformational for so many young silversmiths and jewellers, who are the future of the trade. What is most inspiring at the Goldsmiths’ Centre is the understanding that nurturing and training the next generation requires so much more than teaching alone – professional development, affordable workshops, employment or business startup support are of equal importance for success in today’s world.”

Annie Warburton, chief executive and clerk of the Goldsmiths’ Company, added: “The highly specialised skills required in our industry take years to master. They are built upon equally specialised training. Under Peter Taylor’s leadership, the Goldsmiths’ Centre has transformed how we nurture the next generation of jewellers and silversmiths, ensuring these vital skills endure.”