After we had created our Anglo Saxon jewellery we decided to learn about contemporary jewellery and we studied the jewellery designers Tiffanys. In recent years they have created designs from Disney to Christmas themed charms and ornaments. This inspired the children to create their own novelty jewellery and ornaments, using polymer clay. I was astounded by their endeavours as I’m sure you will be. It would be too big a challenge to chose a favourite!

For our Autumn project, we looked at the Anglo Saxons and in particular their crafts people. We focused on their jewellery and the materials and techniques that they used to create it. Some of the most interesting Anglo-Saxon items are in The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge in Kent. In their vast collection are items of jewellery dating from the 5th to 8th centuries. At that time the Kingdom of Kent was wealthy, well connected and known for its outstanding craftsmanship.

We started by choosing one of our favourite pieces from the collection and doing an observational drawing of it. After that we noted key features of Anglo Saxon jewellery, such as their use of symmetry, garnets and geometric shapes and drew and design of our jewellery. We then made our jewellery, using cardboard, tin foil and bronze paint. We were excited and thrilled with our final pieces of jewellery…. don’t you think that they are fantastic too?