What’s this page all about?
The objective is to provide information on the BHI examinations in as brief and succinct a manner as possible, combining data from different formal documents. Interested readers should follow the links presented in this page which take them to full details of syllabus, information for candidates and specimen papers.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
FOR PROSPECTIVE EXAMINATION CANDIDATES
The syllabus is now available for the recently accredited Level 3 qualification, the Diploma in Clock and Watch Servicing. The new technician grade Distance Learning Course (Practical Clock and Watch Servicing) prepares candidates for this new examination which replaces the Certificate in Clock and Watch Servicing.
Examinations will be available for candidates in May 2012; registration for the examination commences in January 2012.
The syllabus gives full details for each of the units, lesson and page references to the Distance Learning Course, and specimen papers.
Please note that if you download a copy of the syllabus, we cannot keep your copy up-to-date with any changes - reference should always be made to the current version on this site.
Horological examinations and the BHI.
The British Horological Institute works closely with the Awarding Body EAL (EMTA Awards Ltd) to ensure the provision of examinations which form the benchmark for standards in the United Kingdom and abroad.
The examination syllabus was developed with support from representatives of the clock and watch service industry, staff from Birmingham City University and EAL (EMTA Awards Ltd) - an engineering awarding body) and is accredited by the Government regulatory body, OFQUAL.
Students who study for the examinations will complete a structured course to equip them to become competent clock/watch makers. A qualification is the most important step to becoming a professional member of the BHI with the benefit of using MBHI or FBHI after your name to signify to the public you have attained a high level of professional expertise.
The exam pathway to Professional Membership.
Summary exam information.
“Helping Hand” – articles from HJ reproduced to help students with their examination preparation.
Candidates are drawn from a variety of backgrounds:-
- Students following full-time courses run by Birmingham City University (BCU), previously called University of Central England - UCE.
- A number of students following the BHI’s Distance Learning Course (DLC) enter the examinations each year. Some also attend short seminars at Upton Hall to complement their learning.
- Students completing the Diploma course in clock conservation and restoration at West Dean College enter units that enable them, along with their Diploma, to apply to become a Member of the BHI.
The examinations arranged by the British Horological Institute.
There are three accredited EAL/BHI awards which cover both practical and theory; they are structured in separate units that may be taken when a student is ready. In this way a part-time student can study at the rate that is convenient and accrue units in order to achieve a full award.
Certificates are awarded to recognise the success in each unit as well as the full award. Candidates whose marks total at least 40% in each unit are awarded a ‘Pass’; a ‘Pass with Merit’ (PWM) is awarded to those who achieve at least 66%.
The three awards are listed below, following the links will give you full information about the Syllabus, Specimen papers, Hints and Tips for candidates and Examiner’s Reports.
- Certificate in Clock and Watch Servicing
(The 'old' accredited award for basic clock and watch servicing at Level 2) - Diploma in Clock and Watch Servicing
(The 'new' accredited award for basic clock and watch servicing at Level 3) - Certificate in the Repair, Restoration and Conservation of Clocks / Watches
(An accredited award which includes the skills and knowledge for the restoration and conservation of clocks / watches) - Important new information (last changed July 2011)
How do the EAL/BHI exams fit into the National Qualifications Framework?
The new Diploma in Clock and Watch Servicing is an award at Level 3 within the Qualifications and Credit Framework. It is related closely to employment but does not require a work placement. You can undertake training for a different job or a new career, or train to advance within your current occupation.
The Certificate in the Repair, Restoration and Conservation of Clocks and Watches is at Level 3 in the National Qualifications Framework. Two new awards are currently being accredited:
The Diploma in the Servicing And Repair of Clocks/Watches (Level 4)
The Diploma in the Repair Restoration and Conservation of Clocks/Watches (Level 5)
