The Traditional Building Skills Bursary Scheme has been running since 2006 with £1.4 million in funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund to provide work-based training opportunities in traditional building skills. The scheme aims to increase diversity and improve skills available to the heritage sector by placing trainees with experienced craftspeople at organizations like the National Trust, cathedrals, and private estates. Over the course of the program, 126 trainees have been recruited, with high completion and continued employment rates in the heritage sector.

1. Clara Willetts - The value of work-based training through the Traditional
Building Skills Bursary Scheme – notes
The Traditional Skills Bursary Scheme has been running in England and Wales since
2006
The project, led by a strong partnership of organisations deeply involved in heritage
building skills and the preservation of the historic environment.
Generous funding of £1.4m from the HLF.
Each partner will fund £100k each and in-kind expertise over the duration of the
project
To increase diversity. 2% women working in trades in the built heritage sector. No
age limit
Lack of work-based training To provide flexible & innovative work-based training
opportunities
The aim of the bursary schemes are to improve the quality of skills available to the
heritage sector. Encourage craftspeople to gain a heritage qualification
Work based training
• Learning on the job, to do the job
• Adapting existing skills
• Self awareness & self-reflection
• Networking
All HLF funded projects encourage grantees to have an element of training as part of
the project and grant.
Working in Partnership
• Cadw
• The National Trust
• Cathedrals
• Historic Building Preservation Trusts
• Private estates
• Colleges & Independent training providers
Recipe for work-based training for traditional building skills
• 1 old building in need of tlc (doiesnt need to be listed!)
• 1 altruistic client
• 1 appropriate specification
• 1 reputable contractor*
* must have experienced, skilled & willing craftspeople to supervise
Placement providers have been:
Sole traders, small, medium & large companies
Also need an enthusiastic trainee!

2. The Scheme:
• Identify and liaise with placement providers to host work-based training
placements
• Recruit trainees of varying skill levels
• Administration
• Financial support for Trainee
• Training Plans
• Support and advice
Added value to…
…The Trainee
…The Trainer
…The Building
…The Contractor
…The Sector
Over 50% contractors go on to employ their trainee. A real boost for individuals
wishing to expand their business.
Facts and Figures
126 Trainees Recruited
15% women, 3% ethnic minorities
97% complete placement
82% continue to work in the built heritage sector
42% gain an NVQ in their building craft
clara@buildingbursaries.org.uk
Tel: 01442 890756
www.buildingbursaries.org.uk