The Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal of Friday 13 November 1908 stated that:[2] [Simmonds] found in Glasgow a large school with 1000 students, working with energy but without success in the competitions in London.
In connection with the shipbuilding on the Clyde, new art studios were established in the yards of Messrs. Denny Bros. Dumbarton and two old students from Derbyshire were appointed by the firm to take charge.
Here were produced high class decorations for the saloons of the steamers such as figure panels, painted tiles, stained glass and wood carvings, under the direction of the Headmaster.
It was merged with a School of Science; and then renamed Derby Technical College, but the Town Council kept Simmonds on as Headmaster.
[3] From the Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal of Saturday 17 August 1912:[3] He was among the first exhibitors in London of enamelling in the manner of Limoges, and introduced it as a part of the craft work in the School of Art.
He also much time and attention designing for manufacturers, and had intimate knowledge of the technical requirements weaving, paper staining, china decoration, etc.
From the Cheltenham Examiner of Thursday 15 August 1912:[4] He had been a successful exhibitor at the Royal Academy and other exhibitions.
Simmonds or his students had designed the interior of Ravenshoe as it was described as a 'riot of Arts and Crafts shapes and all hand done'.