North Devon is set to host a unique training opportunity for tradespeople this January and February.
The Heritage Construction Skills Bootcamp is designed to address the growing demand for repair and maintenance of traditional buildings in the South West and aims to tackle the critical skills shortage in the heritage construction sector.
The nine-day course will run across three weeks at Pearce Construction in Barnstaple with sessions taking place on 19 - 21 January, 28 - 30 January and 2 - 4 February. Participants are required to attend all sessions to complete the course.
Working with leading industry experts, the programme will provide practical training in stonemasonry repair, lime plastering and sash window restoration. Participants will also have the opportunity to achieve the Level 3 Award in Repair and Maintenance of Traditional (pre-1919) Buildings, ensuring they gain recognised qualifications alongside hands-on experience.
The sessions will be delivered by some of the most respected specialists in the field. Sean Wheatley, SPAB Master Plasterer of the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers will lead training in lime plastering techniques. Tom Flemons, a Master Stonemason from Cliveden Conservation in Bath will share his expertise in stonemasonry repair. Tutors from the Tywi Centre will guide participants through sash window condition reports and repair techniques, while North Devon Council Conservation Officer Collette Hall will provide insight into local heritage conservation practices.
Councillor Malcolm Prowse, Lead Member for Economic Development and Regeneration at North Devon Council, said: “Without skilled professionals who can use traditional techniques, there is a risk of losing our unique heritage through neglect or inappropriate modifications to our beautiful historic buildings. This bootcamp is a vital step in addressing the skills shortage in heritage construction and restoration. We are encouraging local construction companies, independent tradespeople, students, and apprentices to take part and discover these invaluable and fascinating skills.”
For more information and to sign up, please visit the North Devon Heritage Skills website, https://northdevonheritageskills.co.uk/events/heritage-skills-bootcamp-jan-2026
This course is funded by Devon County Council on behalf of the Department for Education and is free for self-employed professionals and sole traders.
North Devon Heritage Skills offers a range of training opportunities and a dedicated business directory for those with expertise in heritage skills. Visit the North Devon Heritage Skills website to find out more, https://northdevonheritageskills.co.uk.