The number of pupils in the Diamond Cutting course at the Antwerp secondary school De Stemstroom has doubled over the past three years. De Stemstroom is the only secondary school in Europe to offer this specific type of course. At present, 30 pupils are being trained.
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Unusual Diamond Cutting course at Antwerp school sees pupil numbers double
Michaël Torfs
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The school has been organising the course for several years, after it turned out that it became harder to find skilled staff in the diamond sector. This is one of Belgium's and Antwerp's flagships.
The double number in just 3 year's is "a motivation for us to keep investing in this course", school principal Tijl Ooms told the VRT's regional news hub Radio 2 Antwerpen. The school could have had more than 30 pupils, but had to refuse candidates because there are only 30 cutting machines available. "We are the only secondary school in Europe to have this course", explains Marc Machiels, a teacher at the school.
From basics to details
In the second grade pupils learn the basics, while the third grade makes them more familiar with the finishing touch. "At a later stage, they learn more about specific shapes, such as a heart or a triangle," says Machiels.
At this stage, there are 6 pupils that can get a diploma as diamond cutter in June. They are in high demand, but employers also set high demands. Pupils realise this, but still go for it. The diamond sector is an attractive and charming one, says pupil Alexia. "It is obvious that it is gaining momentum. I am really interested in the world of diamonds."