Already in Construction?
If through your current employment you already get the opportunity to work on historic (pre-1919) buildings, then talk to your employer about training and education options available which will improve your understanding of conservation and restoration so that you can specialise in heritage work.
Training and education options, from short duration courses to full qualifications, can be found in our training provider database.
Craftspeople
Your aim should be to obtain the Heritage Skills NVQ level 3 for your chosen craft specialism. Achievement of this qualification will enable you to apply for a CSCS Heritage Skills Card, which you can use to demonstrate your competence to potential clients or employers.
If you are an experienced craftsperson and have an NVQ Level 2 or 3, then you can up-skill and register for the Heritage Skills NVQ Level 3 via the On-Site Assessment and Training (OSAT) route. Speak to your employer about this and existing funding they might be able to claim to help off-set the cost of your training.
Professionals
As a professional, you should obtain a CSCS Professionally Qualified Person Card and follow an agreed programme of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) leading to conservation accreditation.
The Prince of Wales’s Building Crafts Apprentices
Offers talented, enthusiastic and committed craftspeople the opportunity to enhance their vocational skills with the design knowledge, work experience and coaching necessary to succeed in a career in the traditional building sector
Heritage Lottery Fund's Traditional Building Skills Bursary Scheme
The scheme provides bursaries for committed and skilled individuals and is looking for companies and organisations who realise the need to provide on-the-job experience and are prepared to host a placement.
Historic Scotland Craft Fellowships
For individuals from a recognised conservation background or tradespeople who have the potential to extend their existing skill base
