Withdrawal of BTEC Level 3
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT:
UK Blacksmithing needs your support!
Hi fellow blacksmith,
Re: Withdrawal of the BTEC level 3 blacksmithing qualification
This has only recently come to our attention so you are probably not aware: the BTEC Level 3 blacksmithing qualification could potentially be withdrawn in July 2025 due to reforms in technical qualifications by the Department of Education. Currently there is no replacement.
This qualification is critical to delivering blacksmithing training in the UK, which so many smiths today have benefited from. Without the BTEC L3 some institutions may find it difficult to keep delivering blacksmithing training!
Jo Ricketts - Deputy principle at Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire college / The National School of Blacksmithing - is coordinating the support that will be needed to stop the Pearson BTEC level 3 from being withdrawn.
Jo has sent me a template for a support letter which she has asked me to circulate to as many blacksmiths as possible. Please use this template to support the retention of the Blacksmithing BTEC level 3 qualification. The letter should use your business heading or your name and address and include email.
Then attach your letter to an email - please do not just write in the body of an email. Your letter can also be posted if you wish.
Please also ask any smiths you know who have benefitted from training on the level 3 at Hereford and Plumpton to send a support letter in.
Its critically important we don’t lose this qualification
Please send your support letter to Jo Ricketts: RickettsJ@hlcollege.ac.uk
Any questions please ask, but act on the letter now please!
Steve Rook
BABA Secretary
secretary@baba.org.uk