Building Crafts College’s open day is designed to give young people (12-21, under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) an engaging introduction to the college, its courses, and potential pathways into further education, as well as an insight into an exciting project collaboration with Alice Billing House, an artist studio in Stratford.
The event begins with a short welcome and overview of the day, outlining what to expect and who to speak to for more information. This is followed by a guided tour of the college’s state-of-the-art facilities, including bench joinery, stonemasonry, and fine furniture workshops, where visitors can meet staff and current students and gain a real insight into the learning environment.
A key part of the day is a classroom-based session exploring the college’s involvement in the Time Capsule Project, delivered in collaboration with Alice Billing House. This initiative marks a significant moment in Alice Billing House’s transformation, following the restoration of the South Block in 2024 and the upcoming redevelopment of the Grade II-listed North Block into new creative workspaces in 2027. The Time Capsule Project is an ambitious, artist-led initiative that invites the local community to reflect on the heritage, identity and Newham, and how we wish to be remembered 100 years from now. The capsule, which will be sealed in 2027 and opened in 2106, will be a handcrafted object designed and made by Ed Shamwana, the maker-in-residence for both Building Crafts College and Alice Billing House.
During this session, visitors will learn about the tools and processes involved in creating the time capsule, with opportunities to handle materials and see examples up close.
The open day concludes with a hands-on crafting experience, where participants can try out practical skills and techniques used at the college, creating something of their own to take home. Running for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, the open day offers a rich, interactive experience that connects craft, education, and a wider cultural story linking past, present, and future through its collaboration with Alice Billing House.
OVERVIEW OF THE DAY
Welcome and introduction to Building Crafts College
Guided tour of workshops (joinery, stonemasonry, fine furniture)
Meet staff and current students
Introduction to the Time Capsule Project with Alice Billing House
Insight into heritage, identity, and Newham’s future
Hands-on materials session linked to the time capsule
Practical craft activity to make and take home an item
Event duration: approximately 1.5–2 hours
ADDRESS
Building Craft College,
Kennard Rd, London E15 1AH
DATES
16 June, 2 pm -3.30 pm
23 June, 4 pm - 5.30 pm
