We are delighted to announce that our Yeomen Scheme, originally launched to support talented recipients of the Company’s Bursary, Cockpit Arts, and QEST awards, has now been formally refreshed and renamed the Yeomen Programme. Approved by the Court at its recent meeting, this update enhances what the Scheme offers and strengthens the community of talented practitioners associated with the Worshipful Company of Turners.
What the Yeomen Programme offers
• Continues to recognise individual excellence by awarding each Yeoman a badge to wear, a complimentary copy of The Turner magazine each year for the first five years, and an invitation to our annual Summer Reception; ten Yeomen joined us at this year’s event (see picture).
• Maintains the valuable personal recognition while also fostering a community of 43 individuals who can connect, learn from each other, and engage more closely with the Company.
What’s new
- A WhatsApp group for all Yeomen, offering a central space for announcements, ideas, and informal connections.
- A Yeomen Committee is being formed, chaired by Assistant Ian Adkins, with the driving force of Freeman Julian Markson, supported by Becca Baker, our Assistant Clerk, and with several Yeomen to represent and connect with the whole Yeomen community. It will plan activities and guide development. A modest budget will support this work.
- We are launching a flagship event: an inaugural Yeomen’s Day at Wizardry in Wood later this year, which will include our first Yeomen Competition.
- We will explore collaboration with the Emerging Turners Programme, where appropriate, to provide enhanced support and opportunity while maintaining the distinct nature of both initiatives.
Why this update matters
Since the Scheme began in 2020, Yeomen have rightly been celebrated individually. Now, we want to build a stronger sense of community and connection, to one another and to the broader life of the Company. This collective energy will benefit everyone in the network, personally, professionally, and collectively.
