Communities Minister today announced the opening
of the Heritage Skills Apprenticeships programme, the first
recruitment of its kind to be launched by the Department since
2000.
Five apprentices will join Historic Environment Division's
Conservation Works Team, learning traditional skills which will
support the conservation of state monuments in the
Department's care.
Minister Lyons welcomed the recruitment saying: “I
recognise how important these vital skills in the heritage sector
are to develop the expertise needed to restore and maintain the
spectacular historic environment we have here in Northern
Ireland. Skills development and ongoing training in traditional
techniques ensure we are reinforcing a workforce which will be
able to meet the changing needs of and growing challenges facing
the heritage sector.”
Apprenticeships are available for one blacksmith, two stonemasons
and two conservation joiners and each apprentice will work under
a heritage skills master craftsperson to learn long-established
techniques which have been passed down through the generations.
Minister Lyons adds: “These apprenticeships can create
long term careers for individuals interested in the heritage
sector. Not only will the apprentices work towards a professional
qualification, they will have the opportunity to work on historic
monuments and buildings which were created centuries ago and
which form the fabric of our local history. By fostering these
skills, we can protect our historic heritage into the future and
create new career opportunities which will transform the lives of
those who take part.”
The apprentices will be based at the Northern Ireland Heritage
Skills Centre, based within the Department for Communities'
Conservation Works Team in Moira. Apprentices will learn skills
under the master / apprentice model and successful applicants
will work on the maintenance, conservation and preservation of
over 180 State Care sites, as well as undertaking a three-year
Level 3 professional qualification in Heritage Skills.
For more information on how to apply and to find out more visit
http://www.nicsrecruitment.org.uk/.
The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 14
February 2025.
