We are launching two exciting education programmes to support new talent and current professionals in the craft and textiles sector.

Providing a new careers platform, the RSN is launching the Professional Embroidery Tutor Programme. The first intake of students will be September 2024 and applications are now open. This is a professional course for anyone seeking a career as a professional embroiderer and tutor. It is a three-year programme that strategically combines dedicated teaching hours of two days per week with independent portfolio work at home for the remaining week, giving more flexibility to the student. The course is taught in the unique setting of Hampton Court Palace.

We are renowned for our expertise in hand embroidery, and under the guidance of our highly skilled tutors, students on the Professional Embroidery Tutor Programme will be trained to the highest level in technical hand embroidery. The course will also cover Art & Design and Business Skills, as well as give opportunities for Teaching Practice.

The Professional Embroidery Tutor Programme is a specialist course with a maximum of six students per year. As part of the intake each year, the RSN will award a scholarship to a deserving individual in financial need, who shows the potential for excellence in the art of hand embroidery. Supporting young talent, the scholarship is aimed at 18–25 year olds.

The RSN has been providing careers in hand embroidery since it was founded in 1872. Many of the students who have been trained by the Royal School of Needlework are now RSN Tutors, teaching a wide range of techniques to all ages and around the world. In recognition of their craft and quality in teaching hand embroidery, we are also launching a new RSN Fellowship.

The creation of the new RSN Fellowship celebrates and gives recognition to the high teaching standards of RSN Tutors. Fellows of the Royal School of Needlework will be able to display a badge to demonstrate their quality and specialist training. Only graduates of the Tutor programmes and past apprenticeship scheme will be eligible for this award. The colours of the award will change depending upon the length of time they have been teaching for the Royal School of Needlework.

Dr Susan Kay-Williams, Chief Executive of the Royal School of Needlework; “The RSN is an industry leader in the world of embroidery and has been providing careers in the sector for over 150 years. Our founding mission was to preserve the art of hand embroidery, and through its revival, provide employment. Today we work on the same principals, but also lead the development of this heritage craft through our teaching, innovation and by inspiring others. These two new programmes will recognise and support professionals already in our industry as well as attract and nurture new talent to the sector.”

The RSN also teaches a BA (Hons) Hand Embroidery course and runs a dedicated Schools Engagement Programme. The Degree in Hand Embroidery is a three-year full-time course and validated by Kingston School of Art, Kingston University. It is a springboard to a creative career in fashion, interiors and textile art, combining traditional hand embroidery methods with contemporary approaches. Degree Students have collaborated on a wide range of high-profile projects including with Alexander McQueen, Burberry for Makers House, Zandra Rhodes and Lock & Co Hatters. The Degree Course, like the Professional Embroidery Tutor Programme, is taught at the magnificent Hampton Court Palace.

The RSN’s Schools Engagement Programme provides schools with inspirations and free embroidery supplies to explore self-expression ideas through stitch. School workshops and Family Days are also run by the Royal School of Needlework across different venues in the UK, giving children the chance to try their hand at embroidery, many for the first time.

To find out more about the Professional Embroidery Tutor Programme and how to apply, visit the RSN website royal-needlework.org.uk.

If you would like to find out more about the new programme, book onto our Online Information Session which will take place at 11am on Thursday 15 February. You can book your place via the RSN Website or email [email protected]