Stonemason Apprentice - Level 2

Our Specialist Craft Centres have been created to develop a skilled workforce for the National Trust which demonstrates the highest levels of skills, promotes and preserves heritage building crafts, inspires people to take up traditional crafts skills and helps us to repair and conserve our special places, for everyone, for ever. We own and care for one of the largest, most varied and most significant collections of built structures in Europe. The greatest proportion of our 28,500 buildings and structures were constructed pre-1919 and these have high heritage value, with a range of uses – from offices to workshops, mansions to cottages. Our crafts people are an integral part of looking after our assets, using their skills to conserve and maintain our buildings and structures, and being part of creating a lasting legacy.

Based at our traditional Specialist Craft Centre within the grounds of Montacute House, you'll be part of a team dedicated to producing and conserving high‑quality stonemasonry across the Southwest region. This workshop plays a vital role in safeguarding some of the most significant historic buildings in the country, giving you the chance to work in settings rich with heritage, craftsmanship, and character.

You'll also travel to a range of our historic properties across the Southwest. Every building tells its own story, which means no two jobs are ever alike. You'll learn something new on every project and develop a wide range of masonry techniques to meet the varied challenges that come with caring for centuries‑old stone structures.

From carving intricate mouldings and hand‑finishing replacement stonework to carrying out sensitive conservation repairs on much‑loved properties, your work will help protect these remarkable places for future generations.

Training:

Your training will be based at a specialist college and be delivered via a combination of 24 residential college block weeks and online learning, with all college expenses and travel paid. There will also be opportunities to travel to other National Trust locations with some overnight stays to expand your learning and experience. You will also be able to join other training events and learn from industry colleagues internally and externally.

You’ll be working with your Trust Line Manager/Mentor on tasks specific to your apprenticeship, developing the skills & knowledge relevant to this apprenticeship standard, and working outdoors in all weathers.

You will attend, and prepare for, regular review meetings with your training provider, and be accountable for your own progression. You will be required to complete mandatory e-learning, courses and training provided.

Training Outcome:

We anticipate this role will lead to level 3 Advanced Stonemasons apprenticeship (currently being finalised) and/or progression to a 12 months’ work placement.

Employer Description:

We protect and care for places so people and nature can thrive. We look after hundreds of houses and close to a million objects, along with vast areas of coastline, countryside and green spaces, for everyone’s benefit. With our staff, members, volunteers and supporters, we’re the biggest conservation charity in Europe. Everyone can get involved, everyone can make a difference.

Working Hours :
Fixed term, full-time (37.5 hours per week to 01/09/28). Shifts to be confirmed.

Skills:
Communication skills,Team working,Physical fitness