Level 4 Diploma in Jewellery and Silverware Manufacturing

Level 4 Diploma in Jewellery and Silverware Manufacturing

SQA code: GJ6M53
Ofqual code: 601/3222/X
Total Qualification Time: 940
Guided Learning Hours: 703

The qualification will develop knowledge and skills in advanced techniques in the manufacture of jewellery and precious metal objects. This is a new qualification which has been developed in partnership with Creative & Cultural Skills.   

The two pathways of jewellery manufacture and silversmithing provide an opportunity to specialise in advanced production and design techniques.

The silversmithing pathway includes producing spun products using advanced techniques and producing tools for use in the manufacture of jewellery or silverware items.

The specialist focus on jewellery manufacture includes repairing and restoring jewellery and applying advanced knowledge of metallurgy to the manufacture of precious metal items.

This qualification may be available through employers, training providers and colleges in England and Wales.

Rationale and purpose of this qualification

This qualification is aimed at those who are in work and are looking for recognition of their prior learning and experience in order to work at an advanced level within the jewellery manufacturing industry as a senior jewellery manufacturer or silversmith.

As a work-related, competence-based qualification it provides confirmation to employers, industry managers and card schemes that the learner has the skills and knowledge needed to meet the nationally recognised standard to carry out the role.

Learners who achieve this qualification can use it to gain employment, to progress in the industry, or to work towards another qualification (see Progression).

Objectives

The qualification is designed to meet the following objectives:

  • supporting a role in the workplace
  • confirming knowledge, understanding and skills in advanced jewellery or silversmithing techniques

What does this qualification cover?

As this is a competence-based qualification, learners will be acquiring the knowledge and skills required through either on-the-job experience or in a learning environment.

To achieve the whole qualification, learners need a minimum of 94 credits. They must complete two mandatory units (credit value 17) then a further four mandatory units and one optional unit from either the jewellery manufacturing or silversmithing pathways from the qualification structure.

Who is this qualification for?

This qualification is suitable for:

  • learners who have completed a qualification in a relevant discipline at level 3 Diploma in Jewellery and Silverware Manufacturing.
  • people in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
  • individuals who wish to start their own business

Entry

Entry to the qualification is at the discretion of the centre.

This qualification is mainly taken by individuals employed as:

  • an advanced silversmith or advanced jewellery manufacturer
  • a senior silversmith, senior smallworker, senior silver spinner, senior model maker, or senior chaser
  • a senior manufacturing jeweller; senior diamond mounter, senior pattern maker, or senior precious metal caster.

Apprenticeships

This qualification is a mandatory component in the Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship in Jewellery Manufacturing and Silversmithing in England (as detailed in SASE).

Progression

Learners may progress from the Level 4 Diploma in Jewellery and Silverware Manufacturing to a range of degree programmes.

Learners may be employed as:

  • a senior silversmith, senior smallworker, senior silver spinner, senior model maker, or senior chaser
  • a senior manufacturing jeweller; senior diamond mounter, senior pattern maker, or senior precious metal caster

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Qualification structure

The qualification requires the learner to complete two mandatory units (credit value 17) plus four mandatory units and one optional unit from either the jewellery manufacturing or silversmithing pathways (credit value 77 or 93).

Please refer to the qualification structure (102 KB) for more information.

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How to assess

Ongoing course assessment will apply. Each unit specification gives detailed information on the assessment criteria, assessment (evidence) requirements and guidance on instruments of assessment for the unit.

The qualification is assessed by completing a portfolio of evidence which details what the learner has completed at work. This can be gathered through observation, professional discussion, witness testimony or supporting documentary evidence. The assessor can work alongside the learner to confirm that they have met the requirements of the qualification and that they are therefore competent in their role.

The assessment process will ensure that the learner can complete the tasks that they have been directed to undertake and that they can interpret the instructions correctly. They will demonstrate that they can select the appropriate resources for the tasks and can complete them within the given timescales and specifications.

Learner portfolio

Assessment strategy/principle