Glassmaking companies in the Crystal Valley have long been highlighting the need for a new generation of specialists. The good news is that young people’s interest in the arts, glassmaking and jewellery-making in the Liberec Region is growing. Between the 2019/2020 and 2025/2026 academic years, the number of pupils in these fields increased by almost 30 per cent.

In the 2025/2026 academic year, a total of 833 pupils attended six secondary schools specialising in glassmaking, costume jewellery and jewellery-making. The greatest increase was recorded at the Secondary School of Crafts and Services in Jablonec nad Nisou, where the number of students rose by almost 72 per cent over six years. The school is responding to this high level of interest by planning to increase the capacity of certain courses.

According to school headteachers, it is not only the number of applicants that is growing, but also their motivation. Young people are attracted by the opportunity to create their own work, to work with unique materials, and by the prospect of a career in a field that combines craftsmanship, design and modern technology. The fact that handcrafted glassmaking is inscribed on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage also plays a significant role.

Schools are responding to this growing interest by expanding their range of courses and modernising their facilities. The Secondary School of Applied Arts for Glassmaking in Kamenický Šenov launched a new course in Flat Glass Design this year and is preparing to set up a glassmaking business incubator to help graduates gain their first professional experience.

Linking teaching with practical experience is crucial for students’ future careers. Schools collaborate with glass-making firms, organising specialist work placements and study abroad programmes. Employers confirm that graduates are in high demand on the labour market, particularly if they can combine creativity with technical knowledge and craftsmanship.

The Liberec Region also supports young talent through investment in vocational education, scholarships, competitions and student projects. The Šelmárium project is an example of successful collaboration between schools, the region and the Crystal Valley. A large-scale glass mosaic for Liberec Zoo was created by nearly 50 students from three glassmaking schools. The project enabled them to try their hand at a real-world commission and gain valuable experience outside the school environment.

It is precisely such projects that demonstrate that the traditional craft of glassmaking has a future. Thanks to the collaboration between schools, companies, the Liberec Region and Křišťálové údolí, young people are given the opportunity to develop their talent and find employment in an industry that is characteristic of the region and recognised throughout the world.