How we work
Taking part in Guild life.
Members participate through fellowship, City and Guild events, governance, education and service. For younger members, the Apprentice journey provides a supported route towards Freedom of the City and admission as a Guildman or Guildwoman.
Joining the Guild
From school introduction to full membership
Applications for the apprenticeship are made through a candidate’s school or college, with support from its School Liaison Officer and School Court Assistant.
- 01
Year 12
Awareness
Meet the Guild through school or college engagement. - 02
Year 13
Application
Submit the application pack through the school or college. - 03
Selection
Approval
The school and Membership Committee review candidates. - 04
After leaving school
Indenture
Binding at Guildhall begins the four-year apprenticeship. - 05
Four years
Participation
Take part in mentoring, events, service and City life. - 06
Completion
Freedom and Guild
Submit the final essay, gain the Freedom and become a full Guild member.
Applications normally include the Guild form, a CV, personal statement and full birth certificate. Current fees and deadlines are confirmed through the school or Membership Clerk.
Ask about membershipThe Apprentice journey
A supported path to Freedom of the City of London
Each stage combines personal guidance with active participation in the life of the Guild and the City.
- 01
Application and introduction
An eligible candidate is introduced to the Guild and begins the application process.
- 02
Selection of an Apprentice Master
An experienced member agrees to guide and support the Apprentice throughout the journey.
- 03
Binding at Guildhall
The formal binding marks the beginning of the apprenticeship in the historic setting of Guildhall.
- 04
Four-year apprenticeship
The Apprentice develops their knowledge and relationship with the Guild over four years.
- 05
Participation in Guild and City events
Regular involvement builds friendships and an understanding of civic and Livery life.
- 06
Completion essay
The Apprentice reflects on what they have learned and experienced during the apprenticeship.
- 07
Freedom of the City
On completing the required stages, the Apprentice proceeds towards the Freedom of the City of London.
- 08
Admission as a Guildman
The journey concludes with full admission to the Guild and the opportunity for continued participation and service.
The Constitution
Purpose, governance and membership
The Constitution sets out why the Guild exists, how the Court and Officers govern it, who may become a member, and the responsibilities that come with membership. It provides the formal framework within which the Guild preserves its traditions and carries out its work.
Safeguarding
Keeping participation safe
The Guild takes its safeguarding responsibilities seriously, particularly where Apprentices and younger participants are involved. Relevant members must complete the required checks and training and follow the Guild’s safeguarding policies and procedures.
Safeguarding guidance and training resources are held in the protected members’ area. You will be asked to sign in before accessing restricted material.
Members-only material
Sign-in is required to view safeguarding guidance and training.
Guidance and resources
More detail when you need it
The public site explains the journey; detailed operational guidance is available to the members who need it.