Education
ALL-IRELAND HERITAGE SKILLS PROGRAMME 2024-2025
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. Ensuring that we can continue to restore and conserve our history, but importantly demonstrate the significant role that traditional craft skills can play in creating new spaces and places.
COURSE STRUCTURE
The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme is a full-time, 12-month course which gives practical experience in heritage building skills and the opportunity to work towards a Level 3 NVQ in Heritage Skills. Please download the Programme Overview for a full breakdown of the course components and timescales:
All Ireland Heritage Skills Programme Overview
START DATE
15th July 2024 (subject to change)
END DATE
4th July 2025 (subject to change)
LOCATION
The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme is delivered across different locations in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. See programme overview for further information on locations.
ENTRY 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 craft / construction subject.
• NVQ/SVQ Level 2 or 3 Certificate in a building craft / construction subject.
• Qualification in a building craft / construction subject from a recognised authority.
• Significant working experience in your chosen craft / trade area.
Please note, you will required to submit a digital portfolio containing examples of work/projects you have undertaken in relation to your craft/trade area.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
In most cases you will be required to meet one of the following criteria in order to be eligible to apply 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
Acceptance onto the All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme alone is not sufficient to obtain the appropriate residency / study visa. Please note that The King’s Foundation, the Heritage Council, or the Historic Environment Division cannot assist you in obtaining a visa. 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.
FUNDING AND COSTS
All participants of the All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme 2024-2025 will be awarded a full scholarship covering the course fees, as well as being provided with a monthly bursary of £1400 or €1600 (pro-rated) to help towards living costs.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications for the 2024/25 All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme are now open. Each year the programme hosts up to a maximum of seven participants. Participants are selected via a process of application, shortlisting, and interview.
For further information please download the Programme Overview and Application form below.
•All Ireland Heritage Skills Programme Overview
Deadline for receipt of applications is Monday 22nd April 2024 by 5PM.
Please send all applications and enquiries to the Programme Coordinator at Hugh.Kavanagh@kings-foundation.org