Capel Manor College Leather Showcase and Awards hear from Mary Lewis of the Heritage Crafts Association

Graduates, teachers, parents and industry supporters came together at the wonderful Capel Manor College in Enfield to celebrate their achievements at the end of the academic year. To the backdrop of an incredible display of students work, Mary Lewis from the Heritage Crafts Association spoke of the importance of such skills to our nation, our industry and to our culture.

‘Craft does not exist alone – we are interconnected and share a common language of precision, patience and pride. Capel Manor College is a hub of excellence that keeps our crafts alive and where heritage becomes opportunity. Graduates have chosen to do something difficult – and taking on the hard job of building skills that are rare, valuable and respected. As a sector, makers are not giving up in the face of numerous challenges, there is optimism that such skills can survive. It is astonishing what we have in our hands’

Masters from various leather connected Livery Companies -Saddlers, Cordwainers, Loriners, Curriers and Coachharness Makers – were pleased to present prizes and bursaries to many students present. We are all hugely proud of their achievements and are determined to ensure that Capel Manor remains the preeminent UK College in the delivery of these critical craft skills.