Glass blower/designer : Training

Continuous professional development (CPD) is important for both self-employed glass blowers/designers and those who work for larger companies. It is vital to keep abreast of industry developments, including the introduction of new techniques. Glass Training is the organisation involved in the development of training for the glass industry.

The Open College Network runs a 32-week glass techniques and technologies course at Dudley College of Technology , which can lead to further/higher study and is aimed at those who wish to start their own business in this area.

Many studios and colleges throughout the UK offer professional development courses. You can find a list of these on the Craft & Design Magazine  site. The Contemporary Glass Society  and Glass Training  also publish details of industry-relevant courses. Glass blowers wishing to progress to management positions could enrol on the specially tailored foundation degree in glass manufacturing management at Wakefield College .

Self-employed glass blowers/designers may wish to develop business-related skills through appropriate training, such as:

• photography (to assist with production of catalogues and publicity), marketing and networking;
• information technology, web design and software packages;
• financial management, accounting and legal business matters;
• health and safety.

City & Guilds  offer a Higher Professional Development Diploma in Creative Arts, which focuses on teaching marketing and business skills to creative practitioners, including glass designers.