Jewellery school in the Highlands sparkles with success after business boost

Founded by Dr Karen-Ann Dicken, the Highland School of Jewellery was launched in August last year in response to the lack of local opportunities to learn jewellery-making in the region. With more than 18 years of teaching experience, Karen-Ann recognised the potential to fill this gap and bring her passion for the craft to the Highlands.

Working alongside self-employed jewellery designer Thomas Lacroix, the pair built a sustainable workshop using reclaimed materials such as fence posts and stable doors. The eco-conscious approach helped lay the foundations for the new venture.

Since opening, the school has been met with an enthusiastic response from both locals and visitors. It offers a wide array of specialist subject areas, from digital technologies to traditional techniques like stone setting and casting. Classes are led by a team of self-employed jewellers, while expert academics deliver one-off masterclasses in niche skills.

In addition to regular classes, the school runs popular tourist workshops, giving visitors a chance to create their own jewellery pieces under expert guidance. These sessions offer a hands-on experience in both contemporary and traditional jewellery-making, and allow participants to leave with a handmade souvenir of their time in the Highlands.

Although the idea of opening her own school had long been in the back of her mind, Karen-Ann found the timing was never quite right—until she completed a PhD focused on how digital tools can enhance jewellery-making. Realising it was time to act, she turned to Business Gateway for guidance.

Through a combination of webinars and one-to-one support from a dedicated local adviser, Karen-Ann received advice on business planning, regulations, and funding. With their support, she successfully secured a grant from The Highland Council Start-Up Fund, helping cover initial supply and operational costs.

Now, the Highland School of Jewellery has sold out its evening classes for the next ten weeks.

Looking to the future, Karen-Ann plans to transition the school into a Community Interest Company, further embedding its mission to benefit the local community.

Karen-Ann Dicken, founder of the Highland School of Jewellery, said: "I’m incredibly grateful to Business Gateway for their ongoing support as I grow my jewellery practice here in the Highlands. Their guidance has been instrumental in helping me take this next step—from refining my business strategy to establishing my presence in the local community."

Dianne Swanepoel, Business Gateway Highland Start-up Adviser, added: "It’s been a pleasure to support Karen on her business journey. Her creativity and commitment to the jewellery-making craft is truly inspiring, so it's fantastic to see Highland School of Jewellery thrive. We’re proud to have played a part in helping them turn their vision into a growing business."