Apprentices
In medieval times young people could be bound to a master loriner for a number of years to learn the trade of lorinery.
Today the children, grandchildren, Godchildren or close acquaintances of Liverymen of the Company may become Apprentices, not to learn the trade, but to be junior members of the Company, with a view to them becoming Freemen and Liverymen once they are over the age of 21.
Apprentices, male or female, must be unmarried, above the age of fourteen years and below the age of seventeen years at the time of binding.
An Apprentice will be bound for no less than four years and not more than seven years.
On the completion of the Apprenticeship the Apprentice has the right to become a Freeman of the Company on the payment of the current fine and quarterage.
For further information about membership of the Loriners’ Company please contact the Clerk.
Apprentices are the lifeline of our Company. It is hugely important that we present ourselves as an open transparent Livery Company and whilst we are rich in our histories and tradition the Company should also be seen by young people as something that they are proud to be associated with, and like myself should enjoy all functions, both formal or informal.
I am a very proud Godmother of three Apprentices, one has already progressed through to become a Liveryman in his own right and his two siblings are snapping at his heels.
At times it`s like herding up cats to get them to attend functions on time (or even in the correct dress code!) but I know that they wouldn`t attend anything if they didn`t want to so it would appear that I am getting something right as the Master to three Apprentices.
I am sure that as they grow older they with appreciate the honour that they have had bestowed on them. They are a huge credit to both their parents and their Godmother. As their Father said when I first asked my eldest Godson if he would like to become my Apprentice and as such become a Liveryman in his own right by his 21st birthday –“what a very special 21st birthday present that will be, and really a present that will last a lifetime”.
Who knows, one day I may even (God willing!) attend their Installation Dinners when they become Master Loriner.
DebraCourt Assistant
I enjoy being a Loriner for several reasons. Most importantly to me, it has brought me closer to my Godmother, who sponsored my membership.
Moreover, the events are an excuse for an enjoyable and lavish evening, in different stunning venues, with interesting people.
Finally, sitting on the Livery Committee has given me insight into how the organisation is run, an appreciation for the effort behind each event, and the desire for greater involvement from younger members.
JamesApprentice