A Great Example of the Entry to Work Scheme
We are pleased to share an update from August Eden, who is undertaking a placement at Knockando Woolmill through the Entry to Work Scheme, jointly funded by the Weavers’ Company and the Clothworkers’ Company.
During her first month, August has gained hands-on experience across every stage of cloth production, working alongside the skilled team in the Conservation Training Workshop. From preparing yarn and dressing the looms to weaving, mending and packaging finished cloth, the placement has provided an invaluable insight into the practical realities of textile manufacture. She has also been involved in production planning, learning how yarn requirements are calculated and how specialist finishing processes are managed.
As part of her professional development, August completed specialist training in the maintenance of Dornier looms with Allertex, developing a detailed understanding of the machinery that underpins modern weaving. She has also benefited from Knockando Woolmill’s strong links with other textile manufacturers, visiting neighbouring businesses and learning from experienced professionals across the industry.
Alongside developing her technical skills, August has played an active role in the Woolmill’s visitor experience. She has been leading guided tours of the historic mill, helping visitors understand the heritage of weaving in rural Scotland, and has supported the training of Visitor Centre staff to deliver tours independently. She has also helped to develop interactive handweaving workshops, which will be offered during the summer season.
The placement has provided experience well beyond the weaving shed. August has contributed to marketing activities, explored new weaving software, attended Trust meetings to gain an understanding of the Woolmill’s governance, and helped introduce a new barcode system for the shop. She has also completed training in fire safety, first aid, food safety and customer service.
Reflecting on the placement so far, August describes it as an exceptional opportunity to gain experience across every aspect of a working heritage woollen mill—from textile production and machinery maintenance to visitor engagement and business operations. Having made such a positive start, she is now arranging to extend her placement to the full six months.
The Weavers’ Company and the Clothworkers’ Company are proud to support talented graduates through the Entry to Work Scheme, providing opportunities to develop practical skills, broaden professional networks and gain the experience needed to build successful careers in the textile industry.
