D 5 · Vocational training
Historic buildings have a huge amount to offer in the field of skills training, in terms of both craftsmanship and heritage management. It is generally recognised that professional trade skills are currently under threat, a question currently being addressed by the HLF, the National Trust, English Heritage and the Society for the Preservation of Ancient Buildings. Vocational training is the subject of a report currently being carried out by English Heritage, and the Attingham Trust report will not rehearse the material offered there, other than by offering some examples of best practice. One conclusion that does emerge, however, is that this is a fragmented field, dependent on individual initiatives. A further conclusion is that there is a wide gap between the skills being developed, and rediscovered, at a high level of expertise, and the learning opportunities available to most of the people such as builders who are actually responsible for erecting the majority of the houses that are currently built.
The National Trust
The National Trust offers three main types of vocational training:
 GNVQ site visits, talks and information
Volunteering
Careerships scheme for Gardeners and
Countryside Wardens
Many Trust properties offer talks, visits or information for students studying vocational subjects such as Marketing, Leisure and Travel, and Tourism and Business. The Trust would welcome a more structured engagement with training and skills agencies, and Higher and Further Education institutions to develop this study methodically.
National Trust Careerships
Careership is a practical three-year training programme designed to develop the expertise required to look after historic gardens, parks and the countryside. Each programme combines the best of both worlds, gaining theory at college and developing practical skills at a National Trust property. Careership is open to school leavers as well as career changers.
All trainees are offered a carefully chosen garden or area of National Trust coast or countryside to provide wide experience under the guidance of a head gardener or warden. College-learnt theory is developed into the skills particular to the property, while students learn how to work in a team and with the public.
At the end of the scheme the trainee gardeners or countryside wardens have gained an City and Guilds NVQ 3 in Amenity Horticulture or Environmental Conservation, as well as practical skills and knowledge.
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