FREEMAN COLLEGE [GRADE II LISTED]

This scheme is a conversion of a former cutlery works into a further education college.

The client, RMET, is a specialist trust, set up in 1986, providing further education to 16-25 year olds who cannot access normal educational provision because of learning or behavioural difficulties. The Trust has developed a unique and innovative approach based upon the teachings of John Ruskin, Rudolf Steiner and William Morris.

It provides students with practical training in traditional arts and crafts and other vocational skills, working with craftspeople to develop their skills. The college will work in association with mentors from the “Academy of Makers” small commercial businesses associated with metal industries: cutlery manufacture, pewterware, silversmiths and jewellery.