What is the Certificated Course?
It's a course in technical hand embroidery devised for students who wish to learn the practical skills of hand embroidery and perfect the craft of technical stitching. The course gives students the time and attention from a tutor that is required to master complex technique.
The course is purely practical - there is no written work involved. An element of design work is included with each technique and there will be optional design days available where students can choose to develop their personal art and design skills. Design as such is not included in the assessment of the embroidery; the emphasis is on the technical stitching and executancy of the piece.
For the Basic Certificate:
You work the four core techniques of Jacobean Crewelwork, Natural Silk Shading, Canvas Stitches and Basic Goldwork
For an Advanced Certificate:
Students can work as many other techniques as is practical with their chosen attendance option (see below). These can include any of the following:-
Advanced Techniques in Goldwork, Creative Metal thread, Silk Shading, Tapestry Shading; Beadwork; Blackwork, Box Making; Canvas Shading; Machine Embroidery; Quilting - English and Trapunto; Silk Painting; Smocking; Stumpwork; Tassels and Whitework.
Who is the Certificated Course for?
The course is for anybody who would like the opportunity for concentrated study of embroidery techniques. We welcome both male and female students of all ages and nationalities. Overseas students are particularly welcome and a basic knowledge of English is required. Many of our overseas students use the opportunity to study additional language, art appreciation, culinary and floristry courses. For those who have relocated to the UK with partners here on business or working in embassies, studying the RSN Certificated Course is an ideal opportunity to meet new people and learn new skills.
What level of experience do I need?
A little previous embroidery experience is required, and an enthusiasm for the subject and a commitment to the course is important. We will teach, encourage and support you as your skills develop under the tutor's guidance.
Teaching methods
Classes are small with no more than eight students per day. Tutors are on hand to guide each student through the creative process from the initial design idea, choice of background fabric, colour palate, and choice of threads and stitches to working the piece and solving technical problems. A vast amount of teaching experience has been accumulated over many years and each tutor has a great deal of knowledge and technical skill to pass on to the willing student. You will be learning from some of the most highly skilled hand embroiderers in the world.
Students often comment on the high student/teacher ratio, the high standard of teaching and the relaxed, friendly approach of all the staff. It is amazing to see how many friendships develop over a shared enthusiasm for stitching.
Who are the tutors?
The Certificated Course is taught by working hands-on embroiderers; all are RSN Graduate Apprentices and combine their teaching with work in the RSN's Studio or as freelance embroiderers, textile artists and teachers.
Assessments and the RSN Certificate
All students' work is continuously assessed both by you the student and your tutor. At the end of the module the work is formally assessed by your tutor and another tutor who has not taught you. A sample of work from all venues is examined at the end of each year by an external verifier ensuring that the high teaching standards are maintained.
Students are measured up against the finest embroiderers in the world and the gradings are much higher than other comparable courses.
The gradings of the final percentage are as follows:
Pass 65% to 79%
Merit 80% to 89%
Distinction 90% to 100%
It is a great achievement to gain a Pass for the RSN Certificate and this is what our tutors are aiming for you to accomplish.
The assessment process is optional, so your work need not be assessed. However, a certificate or diploma cannot be awarded for work that is not formally assessed.
Additional study and homework
Students must demonstrate commitment to the course and be willing to do the homework required to cover all the techniques in the time available. Students are encouraged to carry out their own research using the RSN library and Collection of original designs and antique needlework textiles, however, there is no set written work.
Where does the Certificated Course lead?
On successfully completing each technique you will be equipped to tackle your next project with newly acquired skills and confidence. Many students use their Certificated Course experience to assist with their careers in teaching and for business opportunities in interior design and the fashion industry. Other students learn for the pleasure of gaining new skills and using them confidently for their own satisfaction or perhaps as volunteer stitchers for a cathedral or stately home.
Where can I study the RSN Certificated Course?
The course takes place at two venues in the UK; at the RSN in Hampton Court Palace and in the North East in County Durham with Tracy Franklin. There is also an Intensive Option in the USA at the Hyatt Regency Hotel San Francisco Airport.
Accommodation
For those travelling to Hampton Court Palace from a distance and requiring accommodation there are local hotels, bed and breakfast accommodation and private houses that can be used as a base whilst attending the RSN. It is the student's responsibility to secure their own accommodation and this service is not provided by the RSN.
Class Times
Classes at Hampton Court Palace run from 10.00am to 4.00pm with a morning coffee break (tea and coffee provided) and an hour's break at lunchtime. Bring your own packed lunch or visit the Privy Kitchen Coffee Shop or Tiltyard Café within the Palace.
Cost of materials
The cost of materials is in addition to the course fees. Materials are paid for as they are purchased. Expect to pay about £120.00 on the first day of attendance for an initial pack of materials which will contain a slate frame.
Attendance Options
1. Option One at Hampton Court Palace
Work between four and 18 techniques over a full academic year of 36 weeks
Fee 2008/2009
1 day a week 4-6 techniques £ 3,890.00
2 days a week 8-12 techniques £ 7,780.00
3 days a week 12-18 techniques £11,670.00
2. Option Two at Hampton Court Palace - Work one technique at a time
For students who need more flexibility, we offer the option of attending for eight days at any time within the academic year to work one technique. One technique is worked over eight days at dates to suit the student and the four basic techniques must be completed over a five year period. Students are requested to book eight days in advance and to make every effort not to change the arrangements.
Fee 2008/2009
8 days per academic year - 1 technique £960.00
3. Option Three - in Durham City North East England
Work two techniques over sixteen days each year - eight set days over two terms Autumn and Spring.
Next Course starts September 2009
4. Option Four - Intensive Certificated Course
Gain a certificate in eight weeks, or work one or two techniques one year and return to work more techniques in future years. One technique is taught over two weeks (eight days tuition) with classes running on Mondays to Thursdays each week. The four basic techniques must be completed within a five year period.
