Education
Building Craft Programme
THE BUILDING CRAFT 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 King’s Foundation believe that it is crucial to preserve the wisdom and knowledge that embodies 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 Building Craft Programme is a full time, 8-month course which gives practical experience in traditional 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:
START DATE
14th July 2024
END DATE
7th March 2025
LOCATION
The Dumfries House Estate in East Ayrshire, Scotland, with industry placements taking place across the UK. See programme overview for further information on locations.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
The Building Craft 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 Building Craft 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 Building Craft 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:
• NVQ/SVQ Level 2 or 3 or equivalent in a building craft/construction subject.
• Qualification in a building craft/construction subject from a recognised authority.
• Significant working experience in their 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
The King’s Foundation is proud to offer educational opportunities to students from all around the world. Should you require a visa to study or work in the UK, it is important to note that whilst The King’s Foundation is a licensed student sponsor, this sponsorship does not extend to those undertaking the Building Craft Programme. Therefore, acceptance onto the Building Craft Programme alone is not sufficient to obtain the appropriate visa.
In most cases you will be required to hold one of the following in order to be eligible for the Building Craft Programme:
• UK Passport Holder
• Settled Status / Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK
• Pre-settled Status
If you require a visa to work or study in the UK, please contact the Programme Manager prior to applying.
COSTS AND FUNDING
All participants of the Building Crafts Programme 2024-25 will be awarded a full scholarship covering the course fees, as well as being provided with a monthly tax-free bursary of £1,400 (pro-rated) to help towards living costs.
Participants will be required to arrange and pay for their own accommodation travel, subsistence and any associated living costs while on the course. Please read the Programme Overview for further information on the provision of accommodation at certain points of the course. The majority of materials needed for the course will be provided.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications for the Building Craft Programme 2024-25 are now open.
Each year the programme hosts up to a maximum of twelve participants. Participants are selected via a process of application, shortlisting, and interview.
For further information please download the Programme Overview and Application form below.
Deadline for receipt of applications is Monday 8th April by 5PM.