In 2016, the Fondation d’entreprise Hermès, in partnership with the Paris board of education and in collaboration with the Compagnons du Devoir et du Tour de France, launched the Manufacto programme. This educational initiative aims to introduce young generations to manual craft trades during school hours: the pilot year saw 150 pupils accompanied step-by-step as they created a contemporary object.
In September 2024, the Rennes board of education becomes the sixteenth board of education to participate in Manufacto in collaboration with the Foundation. Some 96 classes of all ages (39 primary school classes, 43 middle school classes, 12 lycée classes and 2 special educational needs classes) are now taking part in the programme, for a total of 2,400 pupils. Each of them will discover one of four trades – leatherwork, saddlery-upholstery, carpentry, plasterwork – by creating one of thirteen objects specially designed for the Manufacto programme.
Though the technical specifications of the objects are carefully adapted for each age group, the principle is the same at every level: overseen by a professional craftsperson and an assistant, pupils carry out each step involved in the fabrication of their object and, in doing so, become familiar with the gestures, tools and vocabulary specific to their chosen craft. They have the opportunity to experience the rigour, precision and dexterity – as well as the mutual support and the pleasure of making – that are essential to craft production. At the end of twelve two-hour sessions and after having customised their objects, each pupil can enjoy the pride that comes with having made something by hand from start to finish.
As well as introducing students to craft trades, the programme helps to transform classroom dynamics, allowing pupils to develop unexpected skills and boost their self-confidence. It also gives teachers the opportunity to approach fundamental subjects (maths, literature, history, geography, etc.) in fun and innovative ways.
