Bishopsland is a post-graduate training workshops for silversmiths and jewellers. It was founded in 1993. Members spend one year living and working at the workshops before setting up on their own in pursuit of a professional career.

Approximately 100 graduates have passed through Bishopsland. Most have established their own business, either designing and making in their own workshop, or managing their own gallery or designing for the retail sector. Thirty-six have gone on to take an MA degree, twenty-eight at the RCA.

The Bishopsland Contemporary Apprenticeship acts as a bridge between college and the realities of the commercial world.

Bishopsland approximates to the second half of an old-fashioned apprenticeship when the aspiring craftsman started meeting customers, assembling his tools and stock, and prepared to earn his living. No one can afford an apprentice any more, nor are people keen to sleep under counters and sweep floors. Nonetheless craftsmen need time to polish their skills, to make contacts and to understand the principles of marketing.

Bishopsland works on a tutorial system, teaching specialist skills to the highest standard. It lays great emphasis on marketing and professional practice.

Members take part in important exhibitions and have been invited to take a stand at Collect at the V&A in 2004, 2005 and 2006. Networking and introductions to galleries are an important part of the course as are crucial commercial skills such as pricing, display, book-keeping and presentation.