A unique training programme will help secure the future of Northern Ireland disappearing heritage craft skills.
Thanks to the success of the initial Sustaining Traditional Building Skills in Northern Ireland project funding has been secured for another in 2013, with places for a further 10 craftspeople. CITB-ConstructionSkills NI developed the Sustaining Traditional Building Skills in Northern Ireland project with around £0.5m funding from the UK-wide Heritage Lottery Fund Skills for the Future programme.
South West College managed the delivery of the first project, which offered a unique opportunity for nine craftspeople to work and train alongside experienced practitioners from a range of leading built heritage sector contactors and organisations on live projects. Its focus will continue to be on bridging the skills shortage in the repair and maintenance of traditional buildings in Northern Ireland.
Ciaran McManus, deputy head of training at South West College, said: “The programme provides an opportunity for us to assist in the preservation of our local heritage by providing bursary recipients with the skills, knowledge and experience required to maintain and conserve our built heritage.
“South West College is delighted to be working with CITB-ConstructionSkills NI on the delivery of this invaluable initiative which will secure our local heritage for the future.”
* For more info about the new intake for this programme log onto the CITB-ConstructionSkills NI website at www.citbcsni.org.uk.