#InTheMoment series: we will interview Thomas Lyte staff, our partners, and clients to explore in detail the moments that inspire us.
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Interviewee: Daniel Bollard & Idris Tetlow
Roles: Goldsmiths Apprentices, Silversmiths at Thomas Lyte
#InTheMoment Blog Subject: Unveiling the Stories of Our Goldsmiths Apprentices
Key Themes: Our Apprentices Journey’s to Date, Thomas Lyte’s Apprenticeship Scheme and Preserving the Art of Silversmithing
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As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2024, we hear from two Thomas Lyte apprentices, Dan & Idris, who are currently enrolled on a silversmithing apprenticeship scheme.
Here at Thomas Lyte, we take pride in our commitment to preserving the art of goldsmithing and silversmithing, passing on the necessary skills to the next generation of skilled masters
Dan has been part of the team since 2021, working on some of Thomas Lyte’s major trophies and commissions:
Daniel Bollard: “I originally went to university but didn’t feel like I was learning a lot there, so I moved into silversmithing where I lived in Birmingham however, I wasn’t being pushed to develop my skills and I’m a driven person. I was then given an opportunity to move to London and work at Thomas Lyte and I knew I had to make the jump. I want to be the best of the best and this was the right place to come to fulfil that. I knew this from the moment I started here when I was thrown into the deep end straight away working on some of the biggest trophies.”
“To be given the responsibility and opportunity to work on projects such as the late Queen Elizabeth II processional cross and the National League Trophy, won by Wrexham last year, shows how far I’ve developed. To see a trophy being lifted on TV knowing I’d played a key part in the making process was a proud moment for me.”
The Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Processional Cross designed and crafted by Thomas Lyte
Daniel Bollard: “The main thing that stands out for me is the positive attitude at Thomas Lyte, the whole team have a great approach along with constant support and advice which helps me develop and fuel my passion for silversmithing. Everything we do here has a story behind it to be told, which is exciting to be a part of.”
Idris, another one of Thomas Lyte’s talented apprentices, also since 2021, embarked on his silversmithing journey with the dream of converting visions into tangible works of art.
Idris Tetlow: “I was doing a jewellery foundation programme at the Goldsmiths Centre, and it was there I was told I should go for silversmithing because it’s a niche and well-respected skill. I started to do one day a week at Thomas Lyte, they took a chance on me to bring me onto a full-time apprenticeship scheme and I was really fortunate for that.”
“I am proud that I was able to play a vital role in the making of the Baton of Hope, which spreads such a powerful message around suicide prevention.”
The Baton of Hope, was designed, crafted, and donated by Thomas Lyte to the suicide awareness charity of the same name.
Idris Tetlow: “Seeing the Baton of Hope, crafted for, and passed amongst people, was a career highlight and special to have worked on. I’m a big F1 fan and seeing Daniel Ricciardo lift it as well, on its UK Tour last summer, was awesome.”
“The culture here is the perfect environment for an apprentice as it’s a company with a big reputation, but also that pushes us to do better. You can imagine usual places to be traditional and old school, but here it’s very aggressive silversmithing, progressive and modern.”
We asked Daniel and Idris what advice they would give to future apprentices that are looking to enter the industry:
Idris Tetlow: “Do the research and find a company that is willing to push you and advance your skills. There is a 10-year age gap between the two of us, yet we still challenge each other to be better every day.”
Daniel Bollard: “Throw your hand to any advice and practice along the way, then when the time comes, you can move on to the right place for your development. You won’t get a company that’s better than Thomas Lyte and what they’ve offered for us here”
Daniel & Idris have recently entered the Goldsmiths Craft & Design Council Awards 2024:
Daniel Bollard: “For those that aren’t from the trade, is it’s like the jewellery Oscar’s, where applicants can win awards for submitting gold or silver pieces into either 2D design categories or 3D finished work categories like design or craft.”
Idris Tetlow: “We spent a lot of time on our pieces and were able to create them in Thomas Lyte’s workshop, so we’ve entered to really get our name out there and show what we are capable of.”
Daniel and Idris will be attending the awards ceremony on 4th March where they have submitted pieces into various categories. From everyone here at Thomas Lyte, we wish them the very best of luck.
At Thomas Lyte, we believe that the journey of craftsmanship is not merely about acquiring skills but about fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. Our apprenticeship scheme goes beyond traditional education, creating a space where passion meets profession, and dreams find expression through the art of silversmithing.
As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, we extend our gratitude to Daniel and Idris for entrusting their dreams to Thomas Lyte. Together, we continue to shape the future of silversmithing, one apprentice at a time.
If you are a looking to grow and develop your skills in the silversmithing industry, like Daniel and Idris, call us at +44 (0) 207 751 8844 or email us at hr@thomaslyte.com. We will be delighted to speak with you.
Read about our press mentions and awards for the project
We have selected a number of case studies that demonstrate the broad range of our capabilities designing and making in precious metals.
