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Free BTEC Level 2 Blacksmithing Course in Hereford

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free BTEC Level 2 Blacksmithing Course in Hereford. Classes run full-time at Holme Lacy College, five days a week during the day. You'll need at least four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English, maths and science, to join. Over one year, you'll build the technical and theoretical skills needed to work as a competent blacksmith. The course covers both practical forging techniques and the underpinning knowledge employers look for. There's also the chance to enter national blacksmithing competitions, including at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern.

Who this course is for

This Level 2 course seeks to lay the foundation for a successful career in blacksmithing and comprehensively teaches the technical and theoretical skills that are essential to becoming a competent blacksmith. There is also the opportunity to enter national competitions, one of these being at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern. High-achieving blacksmiths trained at the College are very well regarded by employers and many subsequently trade in their own right. This subject is an excellent choice for a self-motivated and hard-working person who will be expected to have good hand/eye coordination and artistic ability in this exciting and growing industry.

Entry requirements

A minimum of four GSCEs at grade 3, including English, maths and science

What you will learn

  • You'll develop core forging and metalworking techniques used in professional blacksmithing.
  • You'll learn how to use and maintain blacksmithing tools and equipment safely.
  • You'll study the theoretical principles behind metalwork, heat treatment and material properties.
  • You'll practise shaping, joining and finishing iron and steel to professional standards.
  • You'll gain an understanding of health and safety in a forge environment.
  • You'll have the opportunity to enter national blacksmithing competitions to test your skills.

How you will learn

You'll learn through hands-on practical work in the forge alongside classroom-based theory sessions. Assessment is through a combination of practical assignments and written work covering both technical skills and underpinning knowledge. You'll build a portfolio of work over the year that demonstrates your progress and competence.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Holme Lacy College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Blacksmith. Forge, shape and finish metal for trade or artistic work.
  • Farrier. Shoe horses and care for their hooves, requiring further specialist training.
  • Metal fabricator. Construct and assemble metal structures and components.
  • Architectural ironworker. Create gates, railings and decorative metalwork for buildings.
  • Toolmaker. Produce and repair specialist tools and metal parts.
  • Self-employed blacksmith. Many Holme Lacy-trained blacksmiths go on to trade independently.

What you could study next

A Level 3 qualification in blacksmithing or metalwork would be the natural next step, deepening your technical knowledge and opening more senior roles. You could also work toward a blacksmithing or farriery apprenticeship at a higher level. Some learners move into related trades such as welding or fabrication, where a Level 3 NVQ in Fabrication and Welding Engineering builds on the metalworking skills you've already developed.

Apply on hlnsc.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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