This Valentine’s season, students and staff at the British Academy of Jewellery’s London and Birmingham campuses are coming together to turn creativity into community impact through a handmade jewellery project supporting local charities.
The “Charms for Charity” exhibition brings together Level 3 students and staff from BAJ Birmingham, alongside Level 3 and Level 4 students and staff from BAJ London Camden. Each charm will be sold for £10, with all proceeds going to Men’s Minds Matter in Birmingham and the Young Camden Foundation in London.
Every piece in the collection is individually handmade, giving visitors the opportunity to purchase a one-of-a-kind charm while directly supporting organisations that work within their local communities.
The collection showcases a strong blend of creative expression and technical skill. Participants have experimented with materials such as brass, copper, silver, and repurposed items including old spoons, applying traditional jewellery-making techniques including piercing, forming, soldering, and polishing.
Miranda Sharpe, Apprenticeship Coordinator and Birmingham Centre Lead, said:
“The project encourages both experimentation and craftsmanship. It provides students with the opportunity to explore a wide range of materials and techniques while building confidence in hands-on making. Each charm reflects an individual approach to design, which is what makes the collection so special.”
Beyond the making process, the project brings together students and staff from BAJ’s Birmingham and London campuses, working side by side to support local charities.
Kate Rieppel, Head of Curriculum, Further Education at BAJ, said the exhibition reflects the values at the heart of the Academy:
“From handmade creations to collaborative art projects, our students and staff are channelling creativity into action, raising support for local charities while leaving a lasting mark on our community.”
Opening and sale: Wednesday, 11th February 2026 | 16:00 – 17:30.
Exhibition and sale continue until Friday, 13th February.
Attendance is free and open to the public.
London (Camden campus): Book via Eventbrite
Birmingham campus: Book via Eventbrite
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