From apprentice living in a tent to master leather worker: Will Harvey takes over Leather School®

Local master leather worker John Hagger (Tanner Bates) officially hands over the reins of his renowned leatherworking training school.

After 15 years of mentorship, master leather worker John Hagger has officially handed the ownership of Leather School® to his former apprentice, Will Harvey of Dartmoor Leather, ensuring that the craft continues to thrive. Leather School courses now run at a stunning farm location on Dartmoor where Will is continuing the legacy of sharing traditional skills while embracing new techniques, new energy, and a new location.

In 2010, at age 17, Will Harvey moved out of his family home and pitched a tent outside John Hagger’s Tanner Bates workshop in Dartington to begin his apprenticeship. As the business grew, Will became John’s dependable right-hand man, mastering complex bespoke commissions and producing the company’s signature leather goods.

When John founded Leather School® in 2014, Will was a tutor from day one. Upon John’s retirement last year, he knew Will was the natural successor.

John Hagger said: "Will has that rare combination of master-level technical skill and a natural gift for teaching. Watching him grow from a determined apprentice in a tent to a master of the craft has been a privilege, and I know Leather School is in the best possible hands."

In 2021 Will set up his own leather workshop – Dartmoor Leather (www.dartmoorleather.com) – making unique leaf-shaped bags and classic accessories from the highest-quality leather. He now runs small, hands‑on courses from his home workshop near Moretonhamptead. Students consistently praise his ability to create a relaxed yet focused atmosphere where everyone leaves with a high‑quality handcrafted item and a strong sense of achievement.

Will Harvey said: "Taking over Leather School feels like a full-circle moment. My vision is to expand our workshop so we can welcome even more people to this beautiful Dartmoor location. I want to help students trust their own creativity and skills and keep these time-honoured techniques alive."

Courses are currently limited to four students, but Will has plans to set up a larger workshop on site and offer courses in a diverse range of leatherworking skills in the future.

About Leather School®
Leather School® offers a rare opportunity to step away from the pace of modern life to work with your hands and create functional pieces using premium materials, specialist tools, and traditional techniques. From 'Foundations' courses to advanced 'Tooling' techniques, the school provides personalised guidance in a stunning rural setting.

Find out more: www.dartmoorleather.com/leatherschool