Testimonials
"Brilliant work, so important to teach these skills and so rewarding for both sides… if only there were more Deirdre's. So good to see, I have such admiration for what you are doing."
By Theo Fennell , Society Jeweller London
"I have the greatest respect for what Deirdre O'Donnell is doing. Basic skills, well taught are the cornerstone of good jewellery making and there is no quick fix. Really good skills are harder to acquire, and that is what this course offers. What Deirdre is doing is great for the trade and for those that want to learn with a real depth of ability"
By Jane Huston, Crafts Council of Ireland Jewellery & Skills Course Tutor for 14 years.
I chose this course because I always had a great interest in the fashion industry and thought that male / unisex jewellery on a more bespoke scale was not widely available . I was just finished secondary school when I was recommended the course by my parents and I gravitated toward it like nothing else. Time management was definitely something I had to restart from scratch because I learned very quickly I was prone to procrastinating and when you have multiple projects that you are juggling, it can get tense if you have no schedule / time frame to accomplish tasks.
I found the course challenging but not overwhelming. I thought the technical aspect was more respected in a smaller group than a larger one. I definitely think that having a small group helps with the amount of attention needed to focus and keep track of what part of the course you’re currently undertaking.
I feel like I’ve developed creatively as a person and as a goldsmith by applying the practical and mental studies learned at the school. I achieved more than I expected to toward the end of the year. I’ve moved to Toronto to travel since graduating but I’ve sadly fallen short in furthering my studies of goldsmithing over there. I plan to move to London in the near future in hopes of an internship and I’m looking forward to it more than anything.
By Harry Brennan - Graduate 2022, Jewellery Skills and Design Course 2021 - 2022
"The experience I gained undertaking the Jewellery Skills and Design Course was invaluable. Deirdre’s mentorship and guidance has elevated my craft and boosted my confidence in creating high quality jewellery pieces. I will continue to further improve my skills and work with passion and commitment to grow within the industry. I would highly recommend this course for anyone who is passionate about making jewellery. I am forever grateful for her expertise and strive to be as successful as her one day."
By Amy Foley - Graduate 2024, Jewellery Skills and Design Course 2023 - 2024
"I want to thank Deirdre O'Donnell for all her guidance. Through the course I was able to learn a lot and also improve my skills. I like that she gives you the confidence to follow your own process and has the patience to answer any question you ask her. The skills I learned and developed are the base to shape any future jewellery idea."
By Alicia Gisele Arredondo Flores - Graduate 2024, Jewellery Skills and Design Course 2023 - 2024
“After exploring a few different crafts I tried the part time course with Paul and fell in love with goldsmithing and how you could recycle old jewellery and turn it into to something new that would last a very long time.
This past year I have been challenged more than I have ever been, looking back at what I’ve made I can’t believe how much Deirdre has taught me in such a short space of time, I feel very proud of everything I’ve made and I feel very grateful to Deirdre for giving me this confidence in what I can do.
I feel excited to enter the work place and apply what I’ve learned at jewellery skills courses and further my skills in future”
By Gráinne Heather - Graduate 2024, Jewellery Skills and Design Course 2023 - 2024
“Training with Deirdre on her Jewellery Skills and Design Course has been an incredible experience! I have learned to make things that I never could have dreamed of just one year ago. Deirdre has helped me to take the first step towards a career as a goldsmith.”
By Roanna Hilliard - Graduate 2024, Jewellery Skills and Design Course 2023 - 2024
Over the past ten years Deirdre O’Donnell ‘s full time-Jewellery skills and Design course has made an important impact on training the next generation of goldsmiths. I especially appreciate Deirdre’s disciplined approach to teaching traditional goldsmithing skills.
By Breda Haugh, Jewellery Skills and Design Course Tutor
Celebrating a Decade of Impact: Reflecting on the Full-Time Jewellery and Design Course
Over the past ten years, the Full-Time Jewellery and Design Course has undoubtedly had a profound impact on shaping the next generation of goldsmiths and designers. By fostering creativity, skill, and innovation, it has provided students with the tools to carry forward the legacy of exceptional craftsmanship while embracing modern advancements.
Having been part of this journey as a tutor and an advocate of the school, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative role this program has played. The school’s commitment to nurturing talent and upholding the highest standards of jewellery design and manufacture is truly inspiring. It stands as a beacon of excellence, blending tradition and innovation to ensure that students are well-equipped for the demands of the industry.
Both of us trained in established jewellery companies that were deeply rooted in traditional goldsmithing techniques. These foundational skills remain invaluable, and I firmly believe they should serve as the cornerstone of any jewellery training program. However, the future of jewellery design and manufacture also lies in embracing new technologies, such as CAD, to push boundaries and expand creative possibilities. The harmony between respecting time-honored methods and integrating cutting-edge techniques is what will keep the craft alive and thriving.
The inclusion of intensive polishing skills in the course has been another highlight. Over the years, this focus has enabled students to master an essential yet often overlooked aspect of jewellery making. Polishing is more than a finishing touch; it is an art form in itself that requires patience, precision, and expertise. By prioritizing this skill, the course has not only enhanced the students' craftsmanship but also elevated their understanding of the process from start to finish.
In conclusion, the Full-Time Jewellery and Design Course is more than just an educational program – it is a movement that ensures the future of jewellery-making remains vibrant and rooted in excellence. As we reflect on the past decade, I am filled with gratitude and pride to have contributed to such an impactful initiative. Here’s to many more years of shaping the goldsmiths and designers of tomorrow!