The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme supports those working in the construction sector to push their skills to the next level and continue on their journey to becoming the next generation of Master Craftspeople.

The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme partners believe that it is crucial to preserve the wisdom and knowledge that embody many of the traditional building skills which have shaped our historical built environment. As many workers in the sector now reach retirement age it is vital that these skills are passed on to the next generation of master craftspeople. It is imperative that we can continue to restore and conserve our history, but also that we demonstrate the significant role that traditional craft skills can play in creating new spaces and places. The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme provides an opportunity to keep many of these traditional skills alive, guaranteeing their importance for the future, and ensuring that they continue to play an important role in conserving our past.

 

START DATE

9th July 2023 (subject to change)

END DATE

28th June 2024 (subject to change)

LOCATION

The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme is delivered across different locations in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Participants of the programme will be registered for their NVQ assessment at the Department for Communities Historic Environment Division (HED) Heritage and Skills Centre in Moira, Co Down, Northern Ireland. The Summer School will be delivered at Dumfries House Estate in Scotland and the Winter School will be delivered in Kilkenny, in the Republic of Ireland. Industry placements will be across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

COURSE STRUCTURE

The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme is a full-time, 12-month course which gives practical experience in heritage building skills. Participants will also undertake a Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Heritage Skills (Construction).*

Please download the Programme Overview for a full breakdown of the course components and timescales:

All Ireland Heritage Skills Programme Overview

*a participants existing experience/qualifications and availability of assessors will need to be considered prior to the opportunity to pursue a qualification being made available.

REQUIREMENTS

The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme is geared towards those with experience in craft areas such as: stonemasonry, carpentry and joinery, bricklaying, blacksmithing, plastering, thatching, roofing and tiling, painting and decorating. (List not exhaustive) Applicants should have an interest in developing their craft with a focus towards heritage and traditional methods whilst striking a balance with 21st Century ways of working. The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme aims to highlight the holistic nature of our built environment and as such promotes multidisciplinary learning, providing exposure to elements of architecture, design and a range of craft skills. The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme is not an entry level programme and to be successful in gaining a place on the course, candidates must have prior experience in their craft area of choice, either via college or onsite working experience. Applicants must be able to demonstrate at least one of the following:

• QQI/NFQ Level 4 or 5 Certificate in a building / construction subject

and / or

• NVQ/SVQ Level 2 or 3 Certificate in a building / construction subject..

and/or

• Qualification in a building craft / construction subject from a recognised authority

and /or

• Significant working experience in your chosen craft / trade area

Please note, you will required to submit a portfolio (PDF format) containing examples of work/projects you have undertaken in relation to your craft/trade area.

FUNDING

All participants of the All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme 2023-2024 will be awarded a full scholarship covering the course fees, as well as being provided with a monthly bursary of £1400 or €1600.

Participants will be required to arrange and pay for their own accommodation, travel, subsistence and any associated living costs while placement. Accommodation is provided on the Summer School, Winter School, and Materials Courses. The majority of materials needed for the course will be provided.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Acceptance onto the All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme alone is not sufficient to obtain the appropriate residency / study visa. Please note that The Prince’s Foundation, the Heritage Council or the Historic Environment Division cannot assist you in obtaining a visa. In most cases you will be required to hold one of the following in order to be eligible for the All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme:

• UK Passport holder
• Normally resident in the Republic of Ireland
• Normally resident in Northern Ireland
• Settled Status / Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK
• Pre-settled status

If you require a visa to work or study in Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland, please contact the Programme Coordinator prior to submitting an application.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications for the All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme are now open.

To apply please ensure you read the Programme Overview and download the Application Form using the link below.

All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme Application Form WORD

All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme Application Form PDF

For your application to be considered please ensure you send your completed application form, reference and accompanying portfolio in advance of the application deadline.

Please send all applications or any enquiries to the Programme Coordinator, Hugh Kavanagh at Hugh.Kavanagh@princes-foundation.org

The deadline for applications is Friday April 28th at 12pm.