FAQs

How old is City and Guilds?

The roots of City & Guilds can be traced back to the mid 13th century when the original livery companies of London began to form.  They were originally developed to safeguard their specific trades, taking charge of everything from training and wages to labour conditions.  There are now 107 livery companies in the City of London.

In 1878 the 16 leading livery companies with the Corporation of London came together and formed The City and Guilds of London Institute with the aim of establishing a national network of technical education.

What makes City & Guilds a charity?

We were given a Royal Charter in 1900, but it wasn’t until 25th May 1965 that we became a registered charity, charged to provide education and training to any member of the public who desires it.   Visit The Charity Commission

As an employer, what can a City & Guilds award holder offer me?

As a result of constant improvements and specific tailoring to qualifications, our learners are ready and able to enter into the workplace; we believe that they will excel above and beyond expectations. As an employer you can also enrol your staff on part time City & Guilds courses in order to aid their development on the job, therefore increasing your productivity as a business. View the City & Guilds employers pages.

As a learner, what can I gain form studying with City & Guilds?

 Whatever you choose to study, we design our qualifications in close consultation with employers so that they are recognised for progression into employment, higher education or professional development.  This probably explains why the ‘City & Guilds’ name is often used as the synonym for workplace excellence. Visit our subject and qualification pages

How is City & Guilds recognised internationally?

We operate in almost 100 countries worldwide to improve education, boost skills and enhance careers.  The most positive aspect of our international involvement is that companies and educational establishments around the world recognise our qualifications.  To find out more visit our International homepage

What is City & Guilds’ involvement in the community?

We believe we have a responsibility to be actively involved in the community, enabling as many people as possible to benefit from learning and the development of skills.  We do this through five main areas: Celebration, Access, Research, Employee Engagement and Support for Endangered Skills.  For more information visit our Corporate Community Involvement homepage.

What is the Governance structure?

Simply, the governance structure details how the various committees and councils within City & Guilds operate.  From our President HRH The Duke of Edinburgh KG KT HonFCGI down, members of our council are all listed here.

What is City & Guilds Group?

The City & Guilds Group comprises the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM),  NPTC and the Hospitality Awarding Body (HAB).  Together they bring expertise to the City & Guilds Group in their respective areas of leadership and management, land-based and hospitality and catering qualifications.