Building on a future career
Pupils interested in a career in construction are being urged to sign up for a four-day summer school next month.
The Traditional Building Craft Skills summer school, funded by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), comes to Stirling for the first time from July 3-6 and is open to youngsters in S4-6.
Participants will learn the basics of a range of craft skills including stonemasonry, decorative painting, traditional joinery and roof slating and on the final day, students will put their new-found knowledge into a fascinating historical context with site visits hosted by Historic Environment Scotland to Stirling Castle, The Engine Shed – Scotland’s state of the art new conservation centre – and Tradstocks natural stone suppliers.
Organised by the Scottish Traditional Building Forum and Historic Environment Scotland, the event aims to encourage more young people aged 16-18 to pursue an apprenticeship or career in heritage craft skills or building surveying.
John McKinney, from the Scottish Traditional Building Forum, said: “Traditional building skills are crucial to the Scottish construction industry, both in terms of new builds and in maintaining and protecting Scotland’s existing world-famous architecture and engineering.
“Our buildings play a significant role in telling our country’s story and upholding a captivating legacy - Stirling is a prime example of that. Scotland needs more apprentices with the enthusiasm to learn the skills needed to maintain our beautiful built environment, and who in turn will be rewarded with a challenging and satisfying career.
“We’ve already been impressed by the level of interest in our public workshops in Glasgow and Edinburgh, so we’re really looking forward to welcoming students to the summer school in Stirling.”
The summer school - which takes place at Forth Valley College’s Stirling campus from July 3-6, 9am-4pm will also offer interactive workshops about traditional buildings, digital surveying and Stirling’s rich city heritage. Some mini lecture sessions will also provide an insight into why some buildings and conservation areas are “listed” along with an introduction to Stirling City Heritage Trust’s Healthcheck scheme for buildings.
Lunch, transportation from the college campus and protective safety equipment will be provided each day. Participants who successfully complete the programme will also be awarded a certificate. To book a place, visit www.forthvalley.ac.uk/ summerschools.