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TheQueen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (abbreviated asQEST) is an art andcraft educationaltrust created to sustain traditional Britishcraftsmanship. It is a British institution committed to helping support craftspeople of all ages and from all backgrounds, at a critical stage in their careers.
The 130 crafts that QEST funds the study of includehorology, finemetal work,book binding,woodwork,stone masonry,leather working,silversmithing,cordwaining,textile design & making,sculpting,basket weaving, andtapestry.
The trust was established in 1990 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of theRoyal Warrant Holders Association and the 90th birthday ofQueen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. It is the charitable arm of this association.[1] In 2016, QEST welcomedQueen Elizabeth II as patron in her 90th birthday year.[1] Since 2017,King Charles III (thenPrince of Wales) has been the society's patron.[2]
QEST offers two forms of grant giving: scholarships and apprenticeships.[2]
QESTscholarships are for individuals more established in the field, looking to complete additional training and excel in their craft. Grants given by the trust aim to help those who already have a significant degree of skill in their chosen craft to develop those skills to a very high level. Grants range from £2,000 to £15,000, and are often given to cover tuition fees and living costs during an individual's training.
QESTapprenticeships are for individuals wishing to begin their career in a practical art, to enter into on-the-job-learning with a master craftsperson. These collaborative grants are awarded to both parties, to fund the tuition and employment of an apprentice during the duration of their three-year apprenticeship. Grants range from £6,000 to £18,000 and are often given to fund material costs and supplement the individual's wage.
Since 2013, QEST have been offering an Award for Excellence annually to a QEST Scholar who has made an outstanding contribution to their craft and the sector, whilst demonstrating their commitment to training and passing on skills to the next generation. The winner is presented with an engraved medal designed and made byThomas Fattorini Ltd and £1,000 prize.
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