Conservator

Architectural conservators are a small but vital community within the built heritage sector, whose practitioners are entrusted to conserve, repair and preserve all the constituent elements of historic buildings, often in situ.

These include: carved, applied or painted decoration; ancient monuments and structures or individual elements within archaeological sites or excavations; glass; metalwork; monuments; sculpture; wall and floor tiles; and wall paintings.

Conservators ensure the proper preservation of our cultural heritage, sustaining it for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future generations. To do this, they must demonstrate a unique combination of practical proficiency and a sound grasp of theory. Without this group of conservators, some of the most important parts of our cultural heritage would be at risk.

Practitioners enter the profession from a variety of routes: from undergraduate conservation courses; postgraduate conservation education and training courses, usually after first degrees in arts, architecture, archaeology or sciences; and by informal/indirect entry without formal further or higher education.

Formal education and training for architectural conservators is provided through established conservation courses within universities and colleges. Varying qualification levels exist, from foundation to postgraduate degrees. Skills and knowledge are usually gained through a combination of formal training, direct work-based learning and work experience, and by attending conferences, seminars, workshops and short courses.

For more information on a career as a conservator, including qualifications and training visit Careers Advice.