On 9 July, we were delighted to take part in Craft Careers Day in Lincoln, delivered as part of the Making the Future programme. The event brought together talented makers, heritage organisations and education partners to inspire young people to explore the exciting range of careers available in craft and the heritage sector.

Making the Future is a partnership between Education & Employers and craft organisations across the UK, working to widen access to creative careers through Craft Careers Days, digital resources and meaningful engagement with schools. By connecting students with practising makers and industry professionals, the programme helps young people discover rewarding career pathways they may never have considered.

We were especially proud to be joined by two talented QEST alumni who shared their expertise and career journeys with students. Including Guy Cowley, a 2023 QEST Garfield Weston Foundation Scholar, who demonstrated the fascinating craft of historical clarinet making. Students were able to learn about the precision and craftsmanship involved in instrument making, as well as Guy’s own career journey. His QEST scholarship has enabled him to train with master instrument makers, research historic techniques and develop new skills that will help preserve this rare craft for future generations.

Also representing QEST was Momoka Gomi, a 2022 QEST Scholar specialising in hand weaving. She shared how traditional weaving techniques can be combined with contemporary design to create both textile art and sculptural wearable pieces. Through her QEST scholarship, Momoka has expanded her practice by studying pattern cutting, helping to bridge the worlds of fashion, craft and fine art.

Alongside our alumni, Sarah Elliott from The Hub Sleaford represented the National Saturday Club, highlighting the opportunities available to young people through the Club and its links with our National Lottery Heritage Fund project.

Representatives from Lincoln Cathedral and the Cathedral Fellowship organisations also attended, giving students an insight into careers in building conservation and the specialist skills needed to care for our historic places of worship.

Adding another hands-on element to the day, Soane Britain, supporters of the Making the Future programme, brought their skilled rattan weavers from Leicester to demonstrate the traditional techniques used in weaving furniture and furnishings. Their demonstrations were a popular reminder of the craftsmanship behind everyday objects.

Events such as Craft Careers Day are an important part of inspiring the next generation of makers and conservators. By bringing together craftspeople, heritage organisations and young people, we can help ensure that traditional skills continue to flourish while opening doors to rewarding and creative careers.

Thank you to everyone who helped make the day such a success. We look forward to continuing to support opportunities that connect young people with the rich variety of careers within the craft and heritage sectors.