What does this mean for craft?
We’ve long argued that there is a need to increase the diversity of routes into craft, to increase both vocational and academic routes into practice, but also to tackle the low numbers of government funded craft apprentices and the funding challenges for independent apprenticeships. So, the White Paper could provide welcome opportunities for those working in craft.
But the new vocational pathways need to be in place before some qualifications and higher education courses disappear. The change in focus of higher education institutions could force them into making difficult decisions about resourcing and running courses. And the Government needs to follow through on its commitment (paragraph 27) to work with employers in the creative sector to address the potential barriers to participation of businesses with flexible employment patterns. So craft businesses and makers need to be supported effectively to participate in and contribute to the employer role.