Repair, Restore, Rebuild: Chichester College Construction Students Take Part in Heritage Taster Day 

It was an insightful day of hands-on learning as a group of Construction students from Chichester College took part in a heritage taster day.  

Hosted by Sussex Heritage Trust, students took part in an action-packed day learning about heritage trades, including repointing, flint work and heritage timber work, all held at the Weald & Downland Living Museum, the home of the hit TV show The Repair Shop.  

During their visit, students were also able to chat with skilled crafts personnel working at the museum, asking them questions in order to gain a first-hand insight into the techniques, knowledge and career opportunities associated with heritage trades.  

This comes as there are an estimated 5.5 million traditional buildings in England that require specific skills and expertise, showing a clear demand for workers trained in heritage skills.  

Students from the college were joined by peers from  Brighton Metropolitan College, Crawley College and Northbrook College, as they received a day of practical activities, live demonstrations and an introduction to the world of heritage construction.  

The taster day formed part of an ongoing collaboration between the college and Sussex Heritage Trust, which has seen students take part in a number of heritage skills-focused events throughout the year.

Helen Loftus, Principal of Chichester College, said:  
“This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to gain hands-on experience of specialist construction techniques that play a vital role in preserving our built heritage.  

“As well as developing practical skills, the day gave students valuable insight into the rewarding careers available within the heritage sector and helped showcase the importance of keeping these traditional crafts alive for future generations.”  

Sarah Nute, Education Officer at the Sussex Heritage Trust, added:
“There is a significant shortage of heritage skills across the sector, putting our heritage at risk. The Sussex Heritage Trust Education Programme is about inspiring the next generation to explore careers in heritage and develop the skills needed to protect it for the future.

“We are thrilled to be working with Chichester College Group to introduce students to heritage careers, offering not just a taster day but opportunities for further training and practical work experience to help them take their first steps into the sector.”

To find out about the range of Construction courses available at the college, please click here. 
 
To find out more about the college’s upcoming open events including this Saturday, November 7, please click here.