Foundation Course
This is a combined Introductory & Basic Skills course leading to a Level 1 Certificate.
During the course you will make the items listed in the Course Programme and – if you elect to take the Skills Test – the Irish Martingale, a Bridle headpiece and a pair of Stirrup leathers also.
The objective in teaching you how to make all these particular items is that it is the best way to help you acquire, practice and embed the skills that are essential if you wish to move on to more complex leatherwork.
The Foundation Course is the starting point for complete beginners and the gateway to all the next level courses. This intensive course will require students to practice at home so they will need to have the tools and facilities to do this.
If students have demonstrable proficiency in the skills taught on the Foundation Course then they may apply for the remaining courses commensurate with their existing skills and training needs.
Course Content
Duration, Fee and Bursary Support
The course duration is 25 days.
The course fee is £2,500.
Course Dates
The Spring 2026 Weekday Foundation Course starting in January is now full. There is one place remaining on the Spring 2026 Weekend course starting in February.
Booking is now open for the Autumn 2026 Weekday and Weekend Foundation Courses. Please see the dates listed below and click the relevant link to apply for a place.
Spaces are limited and demand is high. Applicants need to pay a deposit as soon as they are offered a place in order to secure it.
Spring 2026 Weekend Foundation Course
Week 1: February 14-15
Week 2: February 28 – March 1
Week 3: March 14-15
Week 4: March 28-29
Week 5: April 11-12
Week 6: April 25-26
Week 7: May 9-10
Week 8: May 16-17
Week 9: May 30-31
Week 10: June 13-14
Week 11: June 20-21
Week 12: June 27-29 (Skills test on the 29th June)
Autumn 2026 Weekday Foundation Course (5 weeks)
Week 1: August 17–21
Week 2: September 7–11
Week 3: October 12-16
Week 4: November 9–13
Week 5: December 7–11
Autumn 2026 Weekend Foundation Course (25 days)
Weekend 1: September 5-6
Weekend 2: September 19-20
Weekend 3: October 3-4
Weekend 4: October 17-18
Weekend 5: October 31 & November 1
Weekend 6: November 14-15
Weekend 7: November 28-29
Weekend 8: December 12-13
Weekend 9: December 19-20
Weekend 10: January 2027 9-10
Weekend 11: January 23-24
Weekend 12: January 29, 30 & 31
Other Information
On acceptance of a place, the Centre will provide a list of the tools required.
Students, who do not already have their own, will be provided with a set of tools for which they pay a deposit or they may purchase the tools outright.
However every student will need to have a pair of Saddlers Clams at home so that they may practice in between classes. They will need to buy their own set of clams for this reason.
Students taking the Skills Assessment have to complete an online application and pay the assessment fee to the Society of Master Saddlers. The fee was £65 in 2025.
If you want to discuss your interest further, please email patrick@walsall-leather.org or telephone 07860 957580.
To apply for a place please use the Apply Now links above.
