The Walsall Leather Skills Centre operates under a Service Level Agreement signed with the Saddlers Company in October 2023. We have committed to delivering a range of general and specialist classes and workshops teaching the vocational skills and imparting the knowledge required to develop and maintain a skilled workforce for the UK’s saddlery and leather goods manufacturing sectors – whether factory, small business or craft.
Highly skilled
Vocational training
Our Purpose and Vision
What we do
We provide training to meet the needs of complete beginners as well as advanced practitioners. For those wishing to gain recognised qualifications, we offer training to support the achievement of the City & Guilds L2 & L3 Diploma in Saddlery (Bridle, Saddle and Harness). The Centre will also support the off the job training element of the Level 2 Leather Craftsperson and the Level 3 Bespoke Saddler apprenticeships.
How we do it
We have access to experienced master saddlers, leathercraft workers and leather technologists. Each teaches a subject they are specialist in. Courses are delivered in 2, 3 or 5 day blocks depending on the subject or course and to accommodate course participants. The Basic Skills course is taught over 22 days on 11 alternate weekends.
Where we do it
The Centre occupies a spacious premises in the centre of Walsall within a short walk from Walsall Train and Bus stations. It is equipped with a knife press, sewing and seaming machines, a skiving machine and a range of bench top equipment including staple guns. We keep a wide selection of tools, materials and leather.
Further information & booking a place
Please look at our course planner for 2024 if you are interested in a particular course. Financial support (bursaries) may be available to eligible applicants to assist with the fees for the Basic Skills course. A deposit will be required to reserve your place on a course.
For further information about courses and fees, please email patrick@walsall-leather.org
If you wish to be added to a mailing list please write with your full name and telephone number, home address, what you are interested in learning and your current level of competence and knowledge.
As well as the advertised courses we also offer classes on a range of subjects – from tree straining to pattern making, leather restoration, box work, bag making, flocking, light leathergoods, dog collars & harnesses, and intermediate & advanced bridle work.
If you are interested in these classes please let us know.