Heritage Training Initiative Attracts New Talent

HISTORIC Environment Scotland (HES) has completed two pre-apprenticeship projects in collaboration with Fife Council, Fife College, and The Ridge Foundations, Dunbar.

Launched in September 2023, these programmes provide hands-on training in craft and traditional skills, along with work experience and employability coaching, to offer a new opportunity in heritage skills development.

Pre-apprenticeships offer a pathway for individuals who may be unsure if an apprenticeship is right for them or those seeking to gain more experience before committing to a modern apprenticeship. Since their launch, the pilots have trained 36 individuals in key skills such as roofing, joinery, and stonemasonry, with a strong focus on employability. Some participants have already moved on to further apprenticeships or careers in traditional skills.

Heritage Training Initiative

The announcement comes during Heritage Careers Week, a cross-sector campaign to showcase the diversity of career paths on offer within the heritage sector and inspire young people to pursue a career in heritage.

Fife Council, Fife College, and The Ridge Foundations in East Lothian tailored the programme delivery based on their experience and expertise in construction and traditional skills. To show conservation skills in action, HES organised visits for participants to some of Scotland’s iconic heritage sites such as Stirling Castle, Dunfermline Abbey and Palace, Tantallon Castle, and Dirleton Castle.

Robbie Reid, Head of Skills Training and Design at The Ridge Foundations has been involved in leading both of the pilot courses in Dunbar. He said, “The programme is invaluable in giving participants an insight into future careers in the heritage skills sector, which we are heavily involved in, as well as support and guidance from experienced professionals. All but one of our attendees has gone on to a role linked to what they learned on the most recent course, and we continue to provide support to all of those who have been involved.”

Marion Molloy and Stewart Goldie, Fife Council Employability Officers, added: “The programme has been a transformative experience and journey for young people entering the world of work. Combining a real working environment with first-hand experience, upskilling with relevant training specific to the industry and achieving a college qualification, our young people were equipped with the tools to progress into apprenticeships, jobs and further education.

“The Craft Your Career programme is essential for our young people where they were provided with end-to-end support unlocking their potential and beginning their journey for the future.”

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