Awards and bursaries

Saddlers’ Award

Sponsor

About

This three-year award is designed to support makers working in saddlery or leather goods to develop their craft and business.

What's included?

  • Subsidised studio space for three years within the creative community at Cockpit Deptford
  • Business and professional development including on-site coaching, workshops, and seminars
  • Networking, selling, and promotional opportunities including twice-yearly Open Studios events which welcome 7,000+ people each year (including key press, art world, and trade contacts)
  • Opportunities to collaborate with other craftspeople in the Cockpit community

Who can apply?

Individuals who work in saddlery and leather goods at a key early stage of business will be eligible to apply.

About The Worshipful Company of Saddlers

The Worshipful Company of Saddlers is one of the livery companies in the City of London. It supports several good causes including sponsoring the Society of Master Saddlers, giving prizes at equestrian events, and providing grants and awards in saddlery to craft makers.

 

About Awards & Bursaries at Cockpit

We encourage prospective applicants to attend an Awards Open Day to visit the studios, meet the Cockpit team, and find out more about our awards and bursaries. Attending is not essential to apply but can be a helpful way to understand whether Cockpit is the right environment for your practice. Book a place at our next Awards Open Day here. Booking is required and places are limited. 

All awards and bursaries at Cockpit include subsidised shared studio space, business support, and membership in a vibrant craft community, giving successful makers the space and time to develop their profile, grow their business or practice, and increase profitability. We are looking for applicants who demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit, creative excellence, and highly developed craft skills. 

Please note: 

  • You will be responsible for arranging and paying for your own public liability insurance (minimum £5m) and contents insurance before the start date. 
  • You need to be entitled to remain in the UK for the period of the Award. Cockpit is unable to sponsor or support visa applications. Successful applicants must be UK citizens or have settled status in the UK, in line with the Haberdashers’ Company’s higher education scholarships for ‘home’ fee paying students. 
  • You must be committed to taking up the Award and staying for its duration, completing our Business Incubation programme for new joiners, as well as engaging with business support throughout your time at Cockpit. 
  • We may review your commitment to the Award annually by an interview process. 
  • At the end of your award period, you will be able to make an application and interview for a standard studio to stay on at Cockpit. 
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