Heritage jobs in Brazil

Canal & River Trust is pleased to offer a series of practical heritage skills training courses on the Kennet & Avon canal during September 2025.

This course spans two days: Tuesday 16th and Wednesday 17th September at Hamstead Bridge and Pillbox.

Each course covers an introduction to the management and care of our built heritage, including surveying techniques, conservation principles, in-person demonstrations, and practical hands-on training in the conservation of important heritage structures using traditional materials and techniques.

The training runs over two days, either Tuesday-Wednesday or Thursday-Friday. Attending both days is recommended for maximum benefit, although single-day attendance may be possible without covering all content.

The venues are based on or near WWII pillbox structures from 1940, which will be repaired during the courses. This year marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day, commemorating the end of WWII in Europe.

Participation is limited to ensure personalized supervision, with a maximum of 8 people per day. Places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

The courses are delivered by two members of the Trust’s Heritage team, with over 50 years of combined experience in conservation, alongside a leading WWII archaeologist to enhance the historical context of the pillboxes.

During WWII, canals played a crucial role in national defense, a story that is less known today. The courses will explore this history and the role of waterways during that period.

Requirements

• Interest in waterways heritage
• Interest in learning practical building conservation skills
• Ability to travel to the respective canal section

This is a valuable opportunity to gain practical skills, contribute to the Trust's work, and enjoy some of the UK’s most beautiful canals and rivers. The tasks involve working with a local heritage advisor for support.

An informal interview with the Heritage Team will be conducted to ensure a good fit for the role.

Why we want you

Our Conservator volunteers help maintain our network through heritage and environmental activities, such as painting and litter picking, ensuring the canals remain accessible and well-maintained. They also assist with project-based tasks like rebuilding stone walls or mass planting, adapting to various needs.

What you will be doing

• Day-to-day maintenance
• Heritage restoration
• Graffiti removal
• Environmental enhancements such as hedgelaying
• Creating new access points with building or improved steps and ramps

When registering as a volunteer, you will be asked about any unspent convictions for risk assessment purposes.

The skills you need

• Willingness to learn new skills
• Ability to travel to remote locations

What's in it for you

• Spending time outdoors
• Learning new skills, some with external accreditation
• Maintaining fitness
• Meeting new, friendly people
• Being part of a supportive team
• Improving your wellbeing