The Certificate of Achievement

The Certificate of Achievement (CoA) was developed by the Association of Guilds of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers and has been running since 1989.

The purposes of the Certificate are:  to preserve and improve craftsmanship and design in weaving, spinning, and dyeing; to provide a means for individual self-development for weavers, spinners, and dyers; and to promote education in these crafts. The Certificate aims to provide a structure within which an individual can undertake a programme of study, practice, and experimentation in their own way and in their own time. It is not a formal qualification but a measurement of individual achievement.

The Certificate of Achievement is offered in the following subjects:  Weaving, Tapestry Weaving, Spinning, Natural Dyeing, and Synthetic Dyeing.  The syllabus takes approximately two years of part-time study and instruction to complete, although candidates may take longer if they wish.

Assessments are held in conjunction with the Association’s Summer School. The work submitted for assessment consists of two parts, a portfolio of samples and a project piece. Successful candidates will be awarded a certificate with a grade depending on the marks gained. The grades are: Pass, Credit, and Distinction.

This year, CoA candidates have submitted work in Spinning, Dyeing and Tapestry.  On Friday evening the successful candidates will be awarded their certificates. The CoA work will be on display on Saturday.  You will have a chance to see the work and talk to some of the candidates.

You can even take the plunge and register on the spot (£20, cash or cheque).

Heather Seddon
CoA Co-ordinator