This is a practical  full time two-year course with QQI (FETAC) Level 4 and 5 certification provided under the Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) .It focuses on students learning to design and produce craft pieces from a wide range of materials including textiles, wood, slate and glass. The course content includes painting , sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, fused glass, stained glass, textiles and woodcraft, with the recent introduction of jewellery-making, enameling, copper work and silver-smithing.   The focus is on teaching crafts skills that can be carried out and developed in a small craft workshop.  In the second year, students learn how to organize craft exhibitions as part of their work experience and attend workshops with a the Waterford City Enterprise Board.

Certification

• FETAC  Level 4 and Level 5 Record of Achievement
• FETAC National Vocational Certificate Level 5 Creative Craft (5M1981)

Subjects

• Stained Glass/ Decorative Glass Design
• Drawing
• Design Skills
• Ceramics
• Soft Furnishings
• Art Metal-craft
• Wood Finishing
• Combined Materials
• Printmaking/Batik
• Appreciation of Art Craft & Design
• Communications
• Work Experience
• Introduction to Computers

*Options are contingent on enrolments.

Progression:

Graduates have progressed to Diploma/Degree courses in the Institutes of Technology through the Higher Education Links Scheme for holders of FETAC Level 5 Certification. Further details are available from the relevant institutions.

Career Prospects

This is an ideal course for graduates who wish to learn a variety of craft skills with a view to setting up a small craft business. It would also suit graduates who wish to work in retail or in retail related businesses.  Graduates also have the option of applying for FETAC level 6 in Further Education Colleges or applying for third-level diploma or degree programmes in Art, Craft and Design.