This year marks an extraordinary milestone for the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) as it celebrates 35 years of championing excellence in British craftsmanship. We were privileged to join QEST’s anniversary celebrations at the historic Haddon Hall yesterday, where Lord and Lady Edward Manners graciously hosted an enchanting evening honouring artistry, heritage, and skill.

Haddon Hall’s centuries-old walls provided a fitting backdrop to QEST’s enduring mission: supporting and preserving British craftsmanship for future generations.

One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity to view the stunning works in Showcase 2, QEST’s latest exhibition. This carefully curated collection of pieces by QEST scholars and apprentices demonstrated not only technical mastery but also the creativity and diversity thriving within Britain’s craft community. From intricate textiles and fine ceramics to exquisite jewellery, every piece reflected a dedication to artistry that QEST has nurtured for decades.

The evening also offered a chance to connect with the makers themselves - hearing their stories, inspirations, and the impact that QEST’s support has had on their practice. It was inspiring to see how this charity, founded in 1990, continues to invest in craftspeople at every stage of their careers, ensuring that traditional skills are passed on and evolved for the future.

As we celebrated QEST’s remarkable legacy, the setting of Haddon Hall - with its rich history and timeless elegance - served as a perfect reminder of the value of craftsmanship, tradition, and stewardship. We left the evening not only inspired by the incredible work of QEST scholars but also deeply grateful for the opportunity to witness the vibrancy and resilience of British craft.

Here’s to the next 35 years of supporting makers, preserving heritage, and celebrating excellence in craft.

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Discover more about QEST here: The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST)