Construction lecturers gain heritage skills through North-West CTEC

Construction lecturers from across the North West have developed specialist heritage building skills through a practical Continuing Professional Development (CPD) workshop delivered by The North-West Construction Technical Excellence College (The North-West CTEC).

Based at Wigan & Leigh College, The North-West CTEC is one of ten Construction Technical Excellence Colleges established across England to raise standards in construction education through collaboration, innovation and industry-led professional development.

The workshop, held at a Grade II-listed farmhouse in Cumbria, was delivered in partnership with Historic England and the Lake District National Park Authority. Lecturers from Wigan & Leigh College, Kendal College, Lancaster & Morecambe College and Southport College gained hands-on experience in traditional lime-building techniques in a live heritage setting.

Led by heritage building specialist Brad O’Leary and his team, participants developed practical skills in lime mortar mixing, lime roofing, pointing, limewashing and torching. Working directly on a historic building gave lecturers a greater understanding of both the techniques and their importance in conserving traditional buildings.

Heritage Project Manager Florence Salberter said: “Traditional building skills are essential to repair, maintain and adapt England’s historic buildings. By giving tutors the knowledge and practical experience to teach these specialist techniques, we’re helping ensure the next generation has the skills to care for our historic buildings using the right materials and methods.”

Traditional buildings make up around one-fifth of England’s housing stock, with even higher proportions across areas such as Cumbria and Liverpool. Unlike modern buildings, traditional buildings rely on breathable natural materials such as lime to manage moisture and movement. The use of inappropriate modern materials can accelerate deterioration, making specialist heritage skills increasingly important.

The workshop is part of a wider effort to address the national shortage of heritage construction skills, while supporting the construction sector’s response to climate change and the retrofit of existing buildings. By developing expertise in traditional building methods, lecturers can pass these specialist skills on to future generations of construction professionals.

Director of The North-West CTEC Jo Hall added: “This partnership demonstrates the value of bringing education and industry expertise together to develop specialist construction skills. By giving lecturers practical experience in traditional building techniques, The North-West CTEC is helping colleges deliver high-quality heritage education and pass vital skills on to the next generation of the construction workforce.”

Plastering Lecturer Ben Shaw said: “The day was excellent. Working on a historic building and learning from experienced professionals was invaluable. It gave me the opportunity to develop specialist heritage skills that are becoming increasingly rare.”

The partnership will continue to deliver CPD, employer engagement and technical excellence initiatives to support construction educators and learners across the North West.