Conservation Volunteer (Heritage skills training courses Kennet & Avon Canal Thurs 2nd – Fri 3rd Oct)

Canal & River Trust are pleased to be able to offer a series of practical heritage skills training courses on the Kennet & Avon canal during September 2025. This course is for two days -Thurs 2nd – Fri 3rd Oct at Garston Lock and Pillbox Each course will cover an introduction to the management and care of our built heritage including surveying techniques, conservation principles, in person demonstrations and chance to gain practical ‘hands on’ training experience in the care and conservation to some of our important heritage structures using traditional materials and techniques. The course duration is over two days either Tues-Weds or Thurs -Friday. It may be possible to also attend for a single day, although it would not be possible to cover all of the course content in a single day visit. It is recommended to join for both days to get maximum benefit. The venues for the training will be based on, or nearby to WWII pillbox structures dating from 1940 which will be repaired during the courses, as this year marks the 80th anniversary of VE day, the cessation of World War II in Europe.

There is limited availability for these courses as we will be keeping the group sizes very small (maximum 8 people per day) to ensure you have the benefit of personal supervision and guidance from the trainers.

Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis. The training will be delivered by two members of the Trust’s own dedicated Heritage team, with combined specialist experience of over 50 years working on conservation of historic sites & structures in the heritage sector. We will also be joined by a leading WWII archaeologist who will help bring the story of the WWII pillboxes to life.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. The role our canals played at that time in our history is not well known. During the WWII period the canals were used as part of the nations defences in the event of possible invasion by Nazi Germany.

Requirements • An interest in our waterways heritage • An interest in learning new practical building conservation repair skills
• Be able to travel to the respective section of the Canal

The training courses will take place over two consecutive days to complete. It may be possible to attend a single day only. Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

This is an opportunity to gain valuable practical skills and contribute to the work of Canal & River Trust, as well as a chance to enjoy the scenery of some of the UK’s most beautiful canals and rivers. The task will involve time with the local heritage advisor who will support you through the task.

An informal interview will be held with members of the Heritage Team to ensure there’s a good fit with the role.