Managing Director : Andrew Seddon
Andrew Seddon, Managing Director of Classical Glass and founder of the company in 1991.
“When I left school at the age of 16 I did an apprenticeship in Engineering with British Aerospace and much of the training I received has stood me in good stead for my new career as a stained glass craftsman. I trained as a draftsman and have always been a gifted artist and at working with my hands. To make some thing new and unique, something that can move people to tears with its beauty, a timeless piece of artwork from raw materials is a great privilege for me. I get lost in the shear joy of my craft. To pass this joy on to another gives me a deep sense of satisfaction.
When first I considered the prospect of training an apprentice I only had in my mind the skills and techniques that I could teach the trainees. However I have discovered, much to my surprise, that I had a lot to learn from each individual I worked with. I have discovered how people learn at different speeds and some will learn very quickly because they have a natural aptitude for the work. I have also learned new and improved techniques from watching how an apprentice has taken my knowledge and skills and adapted them to produce a much improved end result. I have had a lot to learn from the people I trained and when I look at the work they can now do independently I know that my love for the craft is being shared.
To me the vision for the future of Classical Glass Ltd is very clear.
·To treat all the people involved in Classical Glass Ltd, employees, customers and suppliers with respect and dignity.
·To seek excellence in every aspect of the business
·To continue the tradition of the stained glass craft through high quality training
·To communicate clearly the significant benefits of traditional stained glass windows in a modern world.
I believe that if we can fulfill these objectives then the future of stained glass manufacture at Classical Glass is secure for the next generation.”
Sponsorship deal with the Bromley Cross Patriots under 13s football team.
Business Director : Corina Seddon
Corina joined her husband Andrew as a partner in the Classical Glass. A former teacher and graduate in psychology she has brought her natural ability to organise and administer to transform the company into the efficient business it is today.
She has a vision for excellence in all aspects of the business.
Corina is currently expanding her knowledge of finance by studying Accounting with the Open University.
Corina also uses her artistic side to design and make the window displays. The latest display features a large stained glass butterfly that she designed and made.
Stained Glass Craftsman : Benjamin Jenkins
Benj joined the company six years ago as an apprentice and has been committed to his development as a stained glass craftsman. He loves the challenge of making new windows and looks forward to the next project with enthusiasm. Although he had no previous experience working with glass his attitude to learning the new skills involved were excellent and he turned out to have a natural aptitude for the work. His confidence has grown with his skills and is a real asset to us and a credit to himself. He has shown a real willingness to learn and has successfully competed his NVQ level 2 in Glass Processing.
Stained Glass Craftsman : Neil Bourn
Neil started with us this year but with 26 years experience in glass and glazing Neil brings a wealth of knowledge and know-how to Classical Glass. He is applying his previous experience to learn the new skills required to be a stained glass craftsman.