Clare has been accepted on the RSA sponsored Flying Start Programme. The RSA Flying Start programme is an intensive three-day residential course specifically for graduates from recent UK design and related creative-industry degree courses. The programme is designed to provide participants with knowledge of the fundamentals of business venture planning and business start-up.

This is Clare’s first business training course after graduating from university and she’s hoping to learn a lot of skills with the aim of setting up her design business.  The course was provided by the Royal Society of Arts, Manufacture and Commerce and is focussed on supporting recent graduates who want to start a business in the design or creative arts industries.

Clare will have the opportunity to receive business training and advice during the programme and will there will be help from a mentor for a full year. This is a great way to move from designing for university projects to establishing a business. Clare is hoping to work hard during 2008 to set up her studio and begin making her handmade ceramic designs.