What is the Certificated Course?
This is an intensive course designed to help students develop hand embroidery skills to a high standard.  The emphasis is on technique and a design element is also provided. In order to gain the RSN Certificate in Embroidery, the four basic techniques of Jacobean, Silk Shading, Canvaswork and Goldwork need to be successfully completed.  Once the basics have been mastered, 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 to study embroidery techniques in an intensive way.  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 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 have been trained on the Royal School of Needlework’s Diploma Course (formerly Apprenticeship) 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 Certificate Students’ work is continuously assessed and verified at the end of each term by external assessors who also verify the Diploma Students’ work, ensuring that the high teaching standards are maintained.  The assessment process is optional, so your work need not be assessed. However, a certificate cannot be awarded for work that is not formally assessed.

Additional study and homework
With all RSN courses there is a distinct emphasis on the technical skills required to successfully stitch each technique.  Students must demonstrate commitment to the course and be willing to do the homework required to cover all the techniques in the time available.  Little theory or historical background information is provided and individual students are encouraged to carry out their own research using the RSN library.  There will be access to the RSN Collections of original designs and antique needlework textile pieces.

Where does the Certificated Course lead to?
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, for pleasure and for business opportunities in interior design and the fashion industry.

Where can I study the RSN Certificated Course?
The course takes place in two venues; at the RSN in Hampton Court Palace and in the North East in County Durham with former RSN Apprentice and staff member, Tracy Franklin.  Each Spring a variation of the course runs for two weeks in Perry, near Des Moines, Iowa, USA.  Plans for a Certificated Course in Japan are in the initial stages.  

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.

CERTIFICATED COURSE FEES 2007/8

Attendance Options

1. Option One
Work between four and 18 techniques over a full academic year of 36 weeks     
 

2. Option Two - 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. 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.

3. Option Three – Intensive Certificated Course during July & August

Gain a certificate in eight weeks, or work one or two techniques one year and return to work more techniques in future years.  The four basic techniques must be completed within a five year period.

Dates Technique Fee 2008
30th June – 10th July 2008 Jacobean £925.00
14th – 24th July 2008 Silk Shading £925.00
28th July – 7th Aug 2008 Canvaswork £925.00
11th – 21st August 2008 Goldwork £925.00
22nd August 2008 Verification Day                                                                                            

CERTIFICATED COURSE FEES 2008/9

OPTION 1 – Work between 4 and 18 techniques over a full academic year

Term Dates:
2008
September 08 to December 19 2009
January 12 to April 03
April 20 to June 19

OPTION 2 – Work one technique at a time on any weekdays during
Term dates above

OPTION 3 – Intensive Certificate Course – three sessions during
2008/09 – Autumn, Spring and Summer

Autumn 2008

Spring 2009

Summer 2009

For further information about the Certificated Course contact:-
Gill Holdsworth
Head of Student Education
Royal School of Needlework
Apartment 12A
Hampton Court Palace
Surrey KT8 9AU, UK

Tel:
Fax: +44(0) 20 8943 4910