YOUNG PEOPLE EXPLORE CRAFT, HERITAGE AND FUTURE PATHWAYS

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE BUILDING CRAFTS COLLEGE

In June, we partnered with Building Crafts College and our shared maker-in-residence, Ed Shamwana, to deliver two open days introducing young people to the college, its specialist courses, and pathways into further education through our heritage project, Time Capsule.

Designed for young people aged 12–21, the events offered an engaging introduction to the world of traditional crafts and creative careers. Participants were welcomed to the college before taking guided tours of its impressive workshops, including bench joinery, stonemasonry, and fine furniture making. Along the way, they had the opportunity to meet staff and current students and gain a first-hand insight into college life.

TIME CAPSULE

A key part of the day focused on the Time Capsule Project, a collaborative initiative between the Building Crafts College and Alice Billing House.

During the session, Ed shared insights into his work as a professional carpenter, explaining how creative commissions are developed, managed, and delivered in practice, as well as how collaborative projects like this come together.

Participants also learned about the wider significance of the Time Capsule Project in marking the ongoing transformation of Alice Billing House. This includes the restoration of the South Block and the future redevelopment of the Grade II-listed North Block into new creative workspaces and community-focused spaces. The project encouraged young people to think about the relationship between craft, heritage, and place, while exploring how buildings and communities evolve over time

The sessions explored themes of heritage, identity, and Newham's future, encouraging participants to consider how today's communities might be remembered 100 years from now. Visitors were introduced to the tools, materials, and processes involved in creating the time capsule, which is being designed and made by Ed Shamwana and will be sealed in 2027 before being opened in 2106.

“The BCC open day was a great chance to see current students share their knowledge and enthusiasm with potential carpenters and stone masons of the future. A very rewarding day.”

Ed Shamwana, maker-in-residence

HANDS ON

Each open day concluded with a hands-on craft activity, giving participants the chance to try practical making techniques for themselves and create an object to take home. The events provided an inspiring opportunity for young people to discover heritage crafts, explore educational pathways, and become part of a wider conversation connecting past, present, and future.

“My child came away feeling genuinely inspired. The open day gave them a real insight into craft skills and future opportunities, and it was great to see them so enthusiastic about learning in such a welcoming environment.”

Parent of open day participant