Learn: Paid Heritage Projects & Skills Placement in Portsmouth

Are you looking for an opportunity to gain some work experience? Would you like to see what it’s like to try out different jobs? We know it can sometimes be hard to find a job and volunteering isn’t always practical or affordable, so Brave Island is really excited to have teamed up with a range of different organisations to offer a number of paid placements.

The Heritage Projects & Skills Placement is hosted by Sustainable Conservation Trust (SCT). We’re looking for a young person interested in heritage, conservation, and community‑led projects. You’ll gain hands‑on experience with real heritage projects while learning practical and creative skills. SCT is a not‑for‑profit organisation working across historic buildings, skills training, and creative heritage projects. Their work brings together artists, makers, heritage professionals, and local communities to explore how historic places can remain useful, inclusive, and relevant today.

What’s involved?

• Supporting heritage research and documentation, such as photography, note‑taking, and simple recording of buildings or places
• Assisting with the preparation and delivery of heritage skills workshops, including sessions focused on traditional materials and repair
• Helping document workshops and activities through photos, short written reflections, or simple visual outputs
• Contributing to public‑facing heritage work, such as helping shape accessible information for community audiences
• Learning how heritage organisations plan projects, work with partners, and balance practical, creative, and community needs

By getting involved, you could…

• Learn how heritage projects move from ideas to real activity
• Gain experience of working with historic buildings, skills training, and community engagement
• Develop practical skills in documentation, research, communication, and teamwork
• Build confidence by contributing to real projects with visible outcomes
• Understand the range of careers linked to heritage, conservation, and the creative sector
• Have the opportunity to shape parts of the role around your interests as it develops

This role will suit you if you…

• Are curious about heritage, buildings, places, or history
• Enjoy learning by doing and trying different tasks
• Like working with people and being part of a small, supportive team
• Are interested in creative, practical, or research‑based work
• Are happy to ask questions and reflect on what you’re learning

Practical info: This placement is open to those aged 18-25 at the start of the placement. It is mostly based at SCT’s office at Portsmouth’s Historic Quarter, with some remote work. Travel between the Isle of Wight and Portsmouth is straightforward via ferry, and SCT’s office is a 5‑min walk from the Wightlink terminal; arrangements will be discussed to make this manageable. It is one day per week for 6 months, and you will be paid a stipend of £100/day.

Opportunity Date & Time: This placement starts at the beginning of May. The day of the week and exact time will be confirmed with you if you are selected for this role, as we will try and be accommodating of your schedule where possible.