Day Courses
What is Blacksmithing?
A blacksmith is a metalsmith who forges metal using tools like a hammer and an anvil to repair and make tools, ornamental objects, hardware, and more. Some of these techniques date back to the Bronze Age. The art of blacksmithing is beautifully illustrated in this short video featuring programme tutor Eric O’Neill and some of the learners at the ETB’s centre of excellence for Blacksmithing, College of Further Education and Training, Cappamore Campus.
Blacksmithing Skills Taster Class
Taster Programme – Uncertified
This 1-day taster course will introduce each learner to our forge facility, Ireland’s only accredited blacksmithing training forge.
The course will cover health and safety in the forge, followed by two, two-hour practical lessons demonstrating how the full-time City & Guilds Blacksmith and Ironcraft programme is taught, including its first practical modules.
This taster course is aimed at beginner and intermediate blacksmiths who would like to explore what City & Guilds Blacksmithing is all about and the skillset the programme offers.
To apply, click on one of the Apply Now buttons below. Or, for more information, call us on 061 381 272
City & Guilds – Blacksmith & Iron Craft
City & Guilds – Level 2 Certified
This 9-month course will equip you with bridging skills and knowledge in forge work. You will learn introductory forging skills, which will start you on your journey to training as a blacksmith or farrier. You will learn how to use forge hearths, forge metal and use specialist blacksmith’s tools.
Progression/Employment Opportunities
On completing this City & Guilds course, you can progress to an apprenticeship in Blacksmithing or an Advanced Apprenticeship in Farriery.
To apply, click on one of the Apply Now buttons below. Or, for more information, call us on 061 381 272
Evening Courses
Our evening course modules are designed for learners who cannot commit to daytime training but still wish to explore and develop their blacksmithing skills. Each module is structured, progressive, and sequenced to support steady skill development. Learners are encouraged to follow the full pathway to gain the greatest benefit and maximise their progression. Classes run one evening per week from 7.00pm to 9.15pm, typically over a 10‑week period.
For more information, call us on 061 381 272
This first module introduces participants to the forge, H&S (health & safety) in the forge, and is followed by a number of basic forging projects, and processes. It’s a great course to explore blacksmithing, and gain some experience in practical blacksmithing.
This follow-on module will see learners develop their skills to forge their own tools, explore tool steels and learn about heat treatment and its processes.
This follow-on  module to Module 2 will see the learner forging more advanced pieces, which are decorative in nature. Once again advancing their time spent forging and their forging skillset.